Secret wine door – French wine & Champagne & cheese tasting

If you’re exploring Paris and want to truly dive into the world of French wine and cheese without the stuffy classroom vibe, this Secret Wine Door experience offers a refreshingly personal approach. We’ve come across plenty of wine tastings in the city, but what makes this one stand out is the cozy, intimate setting combined with the passion and expertise of the guide, Erwan.

One of the things we love about this tour is how it breaks down the art of wine management and selection in a way that’s approachable, even for total beginners. Plus, the focus on small producers and independent winemakers means you’re tasting wines that are authentic, not mass-produced. The other highlight? The chance to enjoy delicious cheeses from small producers, paired perfectly with the wines, in a relaxed, friendly environment.

On the flip side, if you’re expecting a large, high-energy group or a lengthy, in-depth class, this may not be the right fit. It’s just 2 hours, and the group is capped at 16, which works well for a more personal experience—just something to keep in mind if you’re looking for a more extensive or high-energy tour.

This experience is ideal if you’re keen on learning about French wines and cheeses in a relaxed setting, want insider tips on how to choose and order wine in France, or simply wish to taste some excellent, carefully selected products without feeling overwhelmed. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authenticity and small-group intimacy over commercialized tours.

Key Points

• Personalized, intimate experience with a maximum of 16 people ensures a cozy environment
• Expert guide shares practical tips on managing and ordering French wine, making it useful beyond the tour
• Focus on small, independent producers guarantees authentic, high-quality wines and cheeses
• Learn pairing tips and how to taste like a pro, enriching your wine knowledge naturally
• Location near the Eiffel Tower offers a lovely Parisian ambiance and easy access
• Includes Champagne, 5 French wines, and 6 cheeses (or charcuterie), plus plenty of bread for a satisfying taste session

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Taste of Paris’s Hidden Charm: The Setting and Atmosphere

The Secret Wine Door is a charming little shop in the 15th arrondissement, just a short walk from the Eiffel Tower—about 15 minutes on foot. Its location on the street where parts of the film “Inception” were shot adds a bit of fun trivia and makes it easy to combine with other sightseeing plans.

The owner, Erwan, is a certified wine expert from WSET, and he’s passionate about sharing French wine in a way that’s accessible—not intimidating. The space itself feels like a cozy, welcoming spot where you can relax and enjoy the tasting without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Guests consistently comment on how friendly and knowledgeable Erwan is, often noting how much they learned in just a couple of hours. The atmosphere is relaxed and personal, making it an ideal spot whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a small group with friends.

The Itinerary: What Really Happens During the Tasting

While the tour lasts only about two hours, within that time you’ll experience a well-curated tasting journey. The focus is on quality and authenticity—no mass-market wines here.

The experience kicks off with an introduction to French wine and cheese, giving you a foundation to appreciate what you’re about to taste. Erwan shares insights on how to manage wine at home, when to drink certain wines, and even tips on how to order French wine comfortably when dining out. These small, practical tips are gold for anyone planning to explore French wine further.

Next, you’ll move on to tasting a sparkling Champagne—a perfect start that sets the scene for an elegant experience. Followed by five French wines, each chosen from small, independent producers, which helps you understand the diversity of French vineyards.

The cheese tasting features 6 cheeses from small producers—or if you prefer, a charcuterie platter. The cheeses are fresh, flavorful, and paired thoughtfully with the wines. Guests often rave about the goat cheese and the overall pairing experience, which elevates your tasting from simple sipping to a true flavor adventure.

Throughout the session, Erwan shares fun anecdotes and professional tasting tips, encouraging everyone to taste like a seasoned expert. The small group size means you get personalized attention—asking questions and engaging in conversation feels natural and unhurried.

Reviews highlight how engaging and knowledgeable Erwan is, with one guest noting how much they learned about French wines in just two hours. Others appreciated the chance to bring home some of the cheeses they’d tasted, as well as practical advice on selecting wines in France.

What You’ll Learn and Take Away

This isn’t just about sipping wine—it’s about understanding it. You’ll come away with skills on how to taste wine professionally, along with pairing advice. Erwan also explains how to manage your wine at home—like how to store and serve it properly—so you can replicate the experience later.

Guests rave about the quality of the wines—many mention that the wines tasted were much better than what they had in the US, especially the goat cheese, which a guest called “unmatched.” The emphasis on small producers ensures you’re sampling unique, high-quality wines that you won’t find in typical supermarkets.

The pairings are thoughtfully curated, making each sip more interesting and memorable. You’ll learn how certain cheeses complement specific wines and how to balance flavors. These tips are practical and immediately applicable, turning any future wine shopping or dinner into a more informed experience.

Group Size, Price, and Overall Value

At just 16 participants max, this tour maintains an intimate vibe that fosters genuine conversation and personalized attention. The price reflects that small-group experience and the expert guidance, which many guests feel is worth it considering the quality of wines and cheeses, plus the insider knowledge gained.

While the cost might seem higher than larger, more generic tastings, the value is in the quality, authenticity, and personal touch. If you’re someone who appreciates not just tasting but also learning, this is a good investment in your wine journey.

Duration is just 2 hours, which is perfect for fitting into a busy day of sightseeing without feeling too long or draining.

More Great Tours Nearby

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Experience?

This tasting is perfect for lovers of authentic French wine and cheese who want to go beyond the touristy spots. If you’re curious about how to select and enjoy French wines at home or in a restaurant, you’ll find this especially helpful.

It’s an excellent choice for small groups, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed, friendly environment, and a genuine taste of Parisian wine culture. The focus on small producers and quality cheeses makes it ideal for anyone tired of mass-market options.

Travelers who enjoy learning in a friendly setting will appreciate the approachable yet professional guidance. And if you’re staying nearby or have a free evening, this offers a memorable way to indulge in the city’s famed culinary scene.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Erwan’s approach is very welcoming, and he offers practical tips that help even novices feel confident about wine tasting and selection.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours, which is a good length to enjoy multiple tastings without fatigue.

Can I bring children?
No, this experience is only for guests over 18. It’s focused on wine and cheese tasting, which isn’t suitable for minors.

Do I need to pay in advance?
You can reserve now and pay later—just book your spot and pay nothing upfront, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the location easy to find?
Yes, the shop is a short walk from the Ségur or Sèvres-Lecourbe metro stations, and the coordinates make it straightforward to locate.

Are there options if I don’t eat cheese?
Yes, the cheeses can be replaced with charcuterie if you prefer, ensuring everyone gets a satisfying experience.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its focus on small, independent producers, the personal guidance from a certified wine expert, and the relaxed, informal atmosphere set it apart.

Can I purchase wines or cheeses after the tour?
While not explicitly stated, many similar experiences allow guests to buy some of the products tasted, so you might find options available.

To sum it up, the Secret Wine Door experience combines authenticity, expert guidance, and a relaxed ambiance that appeals to those who truly want to enjoy French wines and cheeses without the formality of traditional tastings. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just curious about France’s culinary delights, this tour offers valuable insights and delicious flavors in a cozy setting. It’s best suited for travelers who cherish learning and small-group intimacy, and who want to take home more than just photos—some useful wine knowledge and a taste of Paris that’s truly memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: