Chalon Sur Saone is a fantastic base for exploring the vineyards and wines of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté. This charming town offers more than just scenery; it’s a hub for wine lovers eager to taste regional specialties. One of our favorite experiences is the Mercurey: Château de Chamirey and a tasting, thanks to its immersive approach and professional guidance. It’s a chance to walk through vineyards and learn about the terroirs that give Bourgogne wines their distinctive character.
While Chalon Sur Saone isn’t as overwhelmed with travelers as Dijon or Beaune, it punches above its weight with authentic, hands-on tours. Whether you’re interested in a quick tasting or a full-day exploration, you’ll find options suited for wine novices and connoisseurs alike. Below, we’ve rounded up three of the best tours, each offering a different taste of regional wine culture.
Here’s a quick overview of the types of tours featured:
– A vineyard visit with paired tastings at Château de Chamirey, offering an in-depth look at Burgundy terroirs.
– An hour-long sparkling wine tasting focusing on Crémants de Bourgogne, perfect for bubbly lovers.
– A comprehensive day of tasting Burgundy’s Premier and Grand Crus, ideal for those seeking a deeper dive into top-tier wines.
Now, let’s explore each of these memorable experiences in more detail.
1. Mercurey: Château de Chamirey and a tasting
For around $76 per person, the Mercurey: Château de Chamirey and a tasting offers a fascinating glimpse into the vineyards of Bourgogne. This 2-hour tour is perfect for those who want more than just a quick sip—it’s an immersive journey through the vineyards, terroirs, and nature that shape Burgundy wines.
What makes this tour stand out is the professional multilingual guide who explains in detail the nuances of Burgundy’s wine-growing regions. You’ll explore the Mercurey vineyards, known for producing some of the region’s finest Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The experience is less about tasting endless bottles and more about understanding what makes the terroirs unique. The vineyard setting offers an authentic experience that appeals to wine lovers eager to deepen their knowledge.
Guests have praised the tour for its depth and the guide’s ability to connect wine to the land. At just over two hours, it provides a good balance of information and tasting without feeling rushed. The value for money is high considering the quality of the insights and the exclusive access to vineyard areas.
Bottom Line: This is ideal for travelers who want an educational experience combined with the chance to sample some of Bourgogne’s best wines. Expect a detailed exploration of vineyard terroirs with a friendly, knowledgeable guide.
2. Tasting: Sparkling Discovery
At just $18 per person, the Tasting: Sparkling Discovery offers a quick, yet memorable, hour-long journey into the world of Crémants de Bourgogne. This experience is perfect for sparkling wine fans who want to sample six vintages recognized since 1942 for their elegance and finesse.
This tasting stands out because of its focus on Crémants de Bourgogne, which are often overlooked compared to Champagne but offer remarkable quality at a more accessible price. The varied tasting includes everything from the driest to the most indulgent vintages, showcasing the subtle aromas and complex textures that define regional sparkling wines.
The tour begins at André Delorme, where you’ll be guided through the nuances of each bubbly. It’s a no-fuss, intimate experience that packs a punch for its short duration. Despite the limited reviews, the focus on regional expertise and the opportunity to taste six different Crémants make it a worthwhile stop.
Bottom Line: Perfect for bubbly enthusiasts wanting a quick, high-quality tasting that highlights Bourgogne’s sparkling wine prowess without breaking the bank.
3. Prestige Tasting
For around $53 per person, the Prestige Tasting offers a full-day exploration of Burgundy’s top wines, including Premiers and Grands Crus. This guided experience is ideal for serious wine aficionados eager to taste some of the best wines of Burgundy in one sitting.
What makes this tour special is the guided and commented tasting that educates you on the richness of Burgundy terroirs. You will visit renowned vineyards and sample a selection of carefully chosen wines, giving you insight into the differences between Premier Crus and Grand Crus. The tour emphasizes the unique characteristics of each wine and the land it comes from.
While it’s a full-day experience, the quality of the wines and the depth of commentary justify the price. It’s suited for travelers with a serious interest in wine, as well as those who want a rundown of Burgundy’s finest offerings. The main drawback is that it requires a full day’s commitment, so it’s less suitable for travelers on a tight schedule.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you want an in-depth, guided tasting of Burgundy’s top-tier wines, with expert insights into the region’s prestigious terroirs.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, time, and wine interests. If you’re passionate about vineyard terroirs, the Mercurey Château de Chamirey offers an educational experience that’s well worth the price. For a quick indulgence, the Sparkling Discovery provides an affordable way to taste Bourgogne’s sparkling wines, perfect if bubbles are your thing. Meanwhile, the Prestige Tasting suits those with a serious interest in top-tier Burgundy wines and a full day to dedicate.
Think about your time availability and whether you prefer a focused tasting or a more comprehensive exploration. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular full-day tours. And if you’re traveling during the harvest season or peak summer months, these tours can fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Chalon Sur Saone offers a range of excellent wine tours that cater to different interests and budgets. Whether you want to walk through vineyards learning about terroirs, enjoy a quick sparkling wine tasting, or spend a day exploring Burgundy’s finest wines, there’s something here for you.
For a balanced experience, the Mercurey vineyard tour provides an authentic look into Burgundy’s wine-growing tradition, making it ideal for curious travelers. If bubbles are more your style, the Sparkling Discovery offers a delightful introduction to Bourgogne’s sparkling wines. And for those serious about their wine, the Prestige Tasting unlocks the region’s most prestigious bottles in one rich, guided session.
Remember to book early, especially if you’re visiting during busy seasons, and choose the experience that best matches your curiosity and schedule. Cheers to discovering the flavors of Bourgogne—your taste buds will thank you.
