Private Beaujolais Wine Tour

Imagine spending a day exploring one of France’s most beloved wine regions, guided by a knowledgeable sommelier, tasting nearly 20 wines from charming small wineries, and learning how vintages and grape varieties have evolved over decades. That’s exactly what the Private Beaujolais Wine Tour promises. It’s a curated experience designed for those who want more than just tasting; it’s about understanding the stories behind the wines, the vineyards, and the vintages.

What we really like about this tour is its focus on small, often family-run wineries, offering intimate tastings that feel authentic and relaxed. Plus, the inclusion of a vintage masterclass and the guidance of a certified sommelier adds depth that casual wine-drinkers will appreciate. On the flip side, the price might seem steep for some, especially considering the length and exclusivity, but for serious wine buffs, it’s a chance to get a detailed look at the region.

This experience suits those who want a comprehensive, private day in Beaujolais, with a love for wine and a curiosity about vintage varieties and local terroirs. If you’re after a laid-back yet informative day, with top-notch guides and a luxurious transport, this might be just what you’re craving.

Key Points

• Intimate, private experience led by a certified sommelier
• Tastes nearly 20 wines, including vintage varieties from the 20th century
• Includes a gourmet lunch with Beaujolais wines and local delicacies
• Learn about vintage wines through a masterclass and barrel tastings
• Luxury transportation in electric vehicles, ensuring comfort and sustainability
• Flexible pickup options from multiple cities, making logistics easier

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Private Beaujolais Wine Tour is more than just a tasting trip; it’s a deep dive into France’s renowned wine culture, designed for those who want to understand the nuances of Gamay grapes and the evolution of vintages over time. The fact that it’s private means you get personalized attention, and with a WSET3 graduate guiding you, expect insightful commentary paired with genuine enthusiasm.

One of the tour’s biggest draws, as noted by reviews, is the opportunity to visit small wineries that aren’t on the usual tourist map. These family-run establishments are passionate about their craft, and you’ll get chances to learn directly from the winemakers or their staff. The tasting sessions are carefully curated, often involving old vintages and sometimes tastings straight from barrels, adding a tactile, sensory dimension to the experience.

And let’s not forget the lunch in a gastronomic restaurant overlooking the region’s scenic hills. It’s a relaxed, convivial way to enjoy the wines you’ve sampled, complemented by local cheeses and seasonal products. The entire day flows smoothly, thanks to professional drivers and well-planned stops, making it a stress-free experience.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting early around 9 am, the day kicks off with hotel pickup in your chosen city—Lyon, Paris, Geneva, Nice, Beaune, or Avignon. The private chauffeur then whisks you away in a luxury electric vehicle, whether a Tesla, Mercedes E-Class, or a larger van for groups.

The first winery visit is in Fleurie, a gem for its picturesque vineyards and renowned wines. Here, you’ll take guided tours of the vines and cellars, followed by tastings that may include 20th-century wines, offering a rare chance to taste how wines age over decades. The emphasis on small wineries means you might meet the winemakers themselves, gaining firsthand insights into their aging methods and terroir.

Next, you’ll head to Villié-Morgon for a two-hour lunch at a scenic spot in the heights of Beaujolais. The meal isn’t just about sustenance; it’s a gourmet experience with a dozen cheeses, seasonal products, and of course, Beaujolais wines from the 1960s to the present day. It’s a great way to see how the style and character of the wines evolve over time.

In the afternoon, stops at Juliénas and Fleurie again allow for more tastings and exploration. The guide and Hugo from the JEANGUYOT Wine Agency are both passionate, knowledgeable, and ready to answer all your questions about French wines, vintages, and production techniques. Several reviews highlight how much guests appreciated the depth of knowledge provided by the guides, making this more than just a tasting—it’s educational.

The day concludes with a final tasting session before heading back to your starting point, with a drop-off scheduled at your location.

Transportation and Group Size

Transportation is one of the highlights here—electric cars ensure a comfortable, eco-friendly ride through the scenic Beaujolais landscape. The choice of vehicle depends on group size: couples or small groups get the sleek Tesla or Mercedes E-Class, while larger parties are transported in a Mercedes V Van. This flexibility makes the experience feel personalized, not crowded.

Because of the private nature of this tour, you’ll enjoy a customized experience without strangers, which means plenty of time for questions, photos, and relaxed exploration. The total duration is about 9 hours, making it a full but manageable day.

Price and Value

At $1,287 per person, this tour isn’t cheap. But for what’s included—a full day of private guiding, multiple wine tastings, vintage masterclass, gourmet lunch, luxury transport, and the chance to buy wines to ship home—it’s a solid investment for serious wine lovers. The personalized attention and access to small wineries add value that you wouldn’t get on a larger, less intimate tour.

Some reviews mention that the experience is particularly suited for those curious about vintage wines and the aging process, or anyone wanting a luxurious, educational day in one of France’s top wine regions.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine aficionados who want a detailed, behind-the-scenes look at Beaujolais’s vineyards and vintages. It’s perfect if you enjoy private tours with customized insights and are willing to spend a bit more for a premium experience. While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, if you’re traveling with older teens or wine-enthusiast friends, it can be a memorable day.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, well-organized, and informative wine day with great guides and exclusive visits, this tour ticks all those boxes.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for those new to wine?
While it’s geared towards enthusiasts, the guide’s explanations are accessible, and you’ll learn a lot regardless of your wine knowledge level.

What is included in the price?
All tastings, lunch, professional guide, private transportation in electric vehicles, and the driver are included. No hidden costs.

Can I buy wines during the tour?
Yes, wines can be purchased and shipped to your home later.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there options for pickup?
Yes, pickup is available from multiple locations including Lyon, Paris, Geneva, Nice, Beaune, and Avignon.

How long is the entire experience?
The tour lasts about 9 hours, including travel, visits, tastings, and lunch.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour, ideal for personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

What are the transportation details?
Luxury electric vehicles, either Tesla, Mercedes E-Class, or Mercedes Van, depending on group size, ensure comfort and eco-friendliness.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed for children, it’s best suited for adults or teens interested in wine. The focus on vintage wines and tastings might not appeal to younger children.

Final Thoughts

In the end, the Private Beaujolais Wine Tour offers a well-rounded, enriching experience for those who want to go beyond the typical wine tasting. The focus on small wineries, the vintage masterclass, and the personalized guide make it stand out. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a luxurious, educational day that feels exclusive and tailored to your interests.

If you’re a wine lover who appreciates expert insights, vintage varieties, and high-quality private transport, this tour will likely hit the mark. Yes, it’s an investment, but for the depth and quality of the experience, many find it worthwhile.

Ultimately, this tour balances luxury with substance, offering a memorable day in one of France’s most beloved wine regions. It’s a smart choice for seasoned wine enthusiasts seeking an authentic, private adventure with knowledgeable guides at their side.

You can check availability for your dates here: