Exploring Burgundy in Dijon? Here’s What You Need to Know About the 5 Burgundy Wines & Regional Cheese Tasting
If you’re heading to Dijon and have a soft spot for wine, you might come across this tasting experience at La Source des Vins. It’s a cozy, 1.5-hour session where you can sample five Burgundy wines paired with regional cheeses, guided by passionate experts. While I haven’t done this myself, the reviews and details paint a pretty inviting picture for anyone curious about Burgundy’s vinous treasures.
What we love about this experience is its authentic setting—right in front of the stunning Sainte Benigne cathedral—and the opportunity to explore diverse vintages and terroirs of Burgundy, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The other big plus? The friendly guides make it approachable whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just starting to get into wine appreciation.
A potential consideration? The price point of around $82 per person might seem a bit steep if you’re on a tight budget, especially given the short duration and group size. But for those who value quality, expert guidance, and a chance to taste some rarities, many find it worthwhile.
This tour is particularly suited for wine lovers wanting a curated, educational experience in the heart of Dijon. It’s also great if you’re looking for a relaxed way to start an evening or add a cultural touch to your trip. Not necessarily for families with young children, but perfect for adults seeking a taste of Burgundy’s renowned wines paired with regional cheeses.
Key Points
- Authentic setting: Located in Dijon, right in front of the iconic Sainte Benigne cathedral.
- Expert guidance: Guides are passionate and knowledgeable, making the experience friendly and educational.
- Diverse wines: Focus on Burgundy’s Climats, with vintages from Chablis to Côte de Nuits, showcasing terroir variations.
- Food pairing: Includes regional cheeses, enhancing the tasting and providing a fuller flavor experience.
- Small group size: Max 20 travelers, making it intimate and allowing for personalized attention.
- Price: Around $82 per person, offering a quality selection and expert insights.
The Experience at La Source des Vins: What You Can Expect
When you arrive at La Source des Vins, you’ll find yourself in a warm, welcoming cellar space in the center of Dijon. Its prime location—opposite the Sainte Benigne cathedral—sets a charming scene that immediately connects you to the city’s historic ambiance. The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a manageable, engaging session without feeling rushed.
The guided tasting begins with an introduction to the Climats de Bourgogne, which are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The guide will walk you through the significance of these terroirs, explaining how soil, climate, and tradition influence Burgundy’s wines. This context is valuable for understanding why Burgundy wines are so highly regarded worldwide.
Throughout the tasting, you’ll sample five carefully selected wines. These are chosen based on current discoveries and rarities, ensuring you’re tasting something distinctive. The wines are paired with regional cheeses, a classic combination that many reviewers appreciated. One guest shared, “Lovely wine and cheese tasting. Learned a lot from the very knowledgeable staff,” which highlights how informative and enjoyable the experience can be.
Wine varieties covered include some of Burgundy’s flagship regions—like Chablis, Côte de Nuits, and Côte de Beaune—and vintages that tell the story of the land and the winemakers’ passion. The guide’s enthusiasm makes complex topics approachable, and many reviews point out how much they learned in such a short time.
The cheese pairings are designed to complement the wines, making each sip and bite a balanced moment. While the exact selection of cheeses isn’t specified, regional varieties are likely featured, adding local flavor to the tasting.
Group size is limited to 20 people, which generally means a more personal experience. One review mentioned feeling like they had the basement to themselves, which suggests that on certain days, it can feel quite intimate—especially if you’re lucky with timing.
What the Reviews Say: Authentic Insights
Multiple reviewers raved about the knowledgeable guides. One said, “Learned a lot from the very knowledgeable staff,” emphasizing how much educational value there is. Another mentioned that the organization was “very well organized,” but also “quite spontaneous,” which suggests the experience balances structure with a relaxed atmosphere.
The wines received high praise, with comments like “The cheese and wine pairings were excellent,” and “best tasting in Dijon.” These aren’t just generic compliments—they reflect genuine satisfaction with the selection and the overall experience.
One reviewer, Bruno, noted that he enjoyed the experience alone in the basement and felt it was a special, personal moment—a reminder that even if you’re traveling solo, this experience can be quite intimate.
The tour hits the mark for wine enthusiasts who appreciate educational content, local flavor, and a friendly setting. It’s also appreciated as a good way to start your evening or as an introduction to Burgundy’s famous wines.
Breaking Down the Price and Value
At $81.76 per person, this tasting offers a solid value if you’re interested in Burgundy wines. The price includes guided insight, five different wines, regional cheeses, and a chance to learn about one of France’s most legendary wine regions. Compared to other more extensive tastings or masterclasses, this is a shorter, more focused experience, but many guests seem to feel they leave with a greater appreciation and knowledge.
Remember, this isn’t a large-scale commercial tour—it’s more of an intimate peek into Burgundy’s terroir, guided by passionate experts. If you’re a wine lover, this kind of focused, expert-led tasting can be worth the investment—especially if you’re eager to understand what makes Burgundy wines so unique.
The Practicalities: Logistics and Tips
This tour is conveniently located in the center of Dijon, making it easy to combine with other city sightseeing. The meeting point at La Source des Vins is accessible via public transportation, and the experience itself is designed for small groups, which keeps it relaxed and engaging.
Booking in advance is recommended—on average, travelers plan about 10 days ahead. The tour is a mobile ticket activity, so it’s easy to show your confirmation on your phone.
Since the tour is non-refundable, make sure your plans are firm before booking. The experience is suitable for most adults, but not explicitly geared toward children or families. Service animals are allowed, which is a nice touch for travelers with pets.
Who Should Consider This Experience?
If you’re someone curious about Burgundy wines, eager to learn about terroirs and vintage variations, you’ll find this experience enriching. It’s perfect if you’re in Dijon and want a taste of the region’s vinous culture without committing to a full-day tour. The combination of wine and regional cheese also makes it an appealing, well-rounded introduction to local flavors.
While not tailored specifically for families or children, adults who enjoy a relaxed, friendly environment with expert guidance will appreciate the warmth and authenticity of this tasting. It’s especially suited for those who value educational experiences that deepen their understanding of wine.
FAQs
How long is the tour?
The tasting lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, giving plenty of time to enjoy each wine and learn from the guide.
What is included in the price?
You get to taste five Burgundy wines, paired with regional cheeses, guided by experts, in an authentic cellar setting.
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The guides make complex topics accessible, and the tasting is designed to be friendly for all levels of interest and knowledge.
Can I book last-minute?
It’s recommended to book at least 10 days in advance, but last-minute availability depends on demand.
What’s the location?
The experience begins at La Source des Vins, at 6 bis Rue Michelet, right in the heart of Dijon.
Is this experience family-friendly?
It’s best suited for adults. The focus is on wine and cheese tasting, which might not appeal to children.
Can I get a refund if I cancel?
No, this experience is non-refundable and cannot be canceled or changed once booked.
Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted.
Is transportation provided?
No, transportation is not included, but the location is near public transit.
How are the wines selected?
The wines are chosen based on current discoveries and rarities, offering a unique and educational tasting.
In the end, this Burgundy wine tasting in Dijon offers a delightful, educational glimpse into one of France’s most celebrated wine regions. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a friendly, expert-led experience that combines history, terroir, and regional flavors. Whether you’re a casual wine drinker or a budding connoisseur, you’ll walk away with new insights—and hopefully, a few new favorites.
