Thinking about exploring Burgundy’s sparkling side? This cellar tour and tasting experience at Vitteaut-Alberti offers a close-up look at how Crémant de Bourgogne is crafted, along with a tasting of their full range. It’s a great way to get under the skin of Burgundy’s sparkling wines without the fuss and hype.
What we really like about this tour is how it combines learning about the Traditional Method—from harvest to bottling—with a relaxed tasting session. Plus, the optional gougères served with your tasting add a little savory touch that pairs nicely with the bubbles. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the tour is about an hour and 45 minutes long and costs $38, which is fairly typical for this kind of experience but still something to keep in mind if you’re budget-conscious.
This experience is best suited for those genuinely interested in wine or sparkling wine lovers wanting a deeper understanding of Crémant de Bourgogne. If you’re after a quick, casual tasting, this might feel a bit more in-depth than you need. But if you enjoy hands-on learning and a more detailed look at how sparkling wine is made, it’s a solid choice.
Key Points
- Learn the Family Story: You’ll get to discover the history of Vitteaut-Alberti, a family-run operation since 1951.
- Understand the Traditional Method: The guide explains the process of making Crémant de Bourgogne, from harvest to bottle.
- See the Cellars Up Close: Observation of disgorging and bottling makes the experience more tangible and less about just tasting.
- Taste the Range: You’ll sample the full range of Crémants, which helps you understand the nuances and differences among them.
- Optional Gougères: The savory snacks are a nice touch, complementing the bubbly and making the tasting more memorable.
- Accessible and Informative: The tour is in both French and English, and wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for most visitors.
A Detailed Look at the Vitteaut-Alberti Cellar Tour
If you’re in Burgundy and want to understand what makes Crémant de Bourgogne special, this tour offers a clear, honest look at how this traditional sparkling wine is produced. Located in Rully, Vitteaut-Alberti has been perfecting their craft since 1951, and that history adds a layer of authenticity to the experience.
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The Journey Begins: Family and History
The tour kicks off with an introduction to the family behind the winery. You’ll hear about the winery’s roots and their dedication to maintaining traditional methods over the decades. This personal touch isn’t just filler; it gives context to the quality and consistency of their sparkling wines.
The Traditional Method Explained
One of the best parts of this experience is the clear explanation of the Traditional Method—the same process used in Champagne. You’ll learn about each step, from harvest to the secondary fermentation in bottles, and why it matters. This behind-the-scenes look makes tasting the wines afterward much more meaningful, as you understand the care and craftsmanship involved.
Cellar Visits and Observation of Bottling Processes
The tour takes you into the cellars, where you can see the sparkling wines aging and resting. Seeing disgorging in action—where the sediment is removed from bottles—gives you a real sense of the meticulous work involved. The observation of bottling and disgorging isn’t just visual; it’s a reminder of the precision needed to produce quality bubbles.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Tasting Experience
After touring the cellars, you’ll move to the tasting room. Here, you’ll sample the entire range of Crémants de Bourgogne, which offers a great opportunity to compare styles and flavors. The guide explains what to look for in each, from the bubbles to the subtle flavor nuances.
The tasting is complemented by gougères, served optionally alongside the wines. These cheese puffs add a savory contrast that pairs well with sparkling wines, enhancing the tasting experience without overpowering the wines’ delicate flavors.
What the Reviews Say
Many visitors mention how informative and personable the guide is, making complicated winemaking processes accessible. One review highlights the “wonderful insight into the traditional method,” while others appreciated the “friendly atmosphere” and “generous tasting.” Some note that the experience is quite comprehensive and leaves you with a much better understanding of Crémant de Bourgogne.
Practical Details and Value
At $38 per person for nearly two hours, this tasting delves beyond just sipping wine. It’s about understanding the craft, history, and subtle differences among the wines. The group size tends to be manageable, ensuring personalized attention, and the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a broad audience.
Considerations for Visitors
While the experience is rich in information, it’s primarily focused on wine enthusiasts or curious travelers who want to learn about sparkling wine production. If you’re just after a quick glass of wine or a light tasting, this might feel a bit longer and more detailed than you prefer. Also, remember that food and drinks are not allowed during the tour, so plan ahead if you want a snack or have dietary needs.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for wine lovers, budding sommeliers, or travelers eager to understand the craft of sparkling wine. It’s particularly suited for those interested in traditional methods and who appreciate a historical touch. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner who enjoys wine education, this could be a fun and enriching activity.
For families or travelers with children, it’s worth noting that tasting is for adults 18 and over, and no food or drinks are allowed during the tour, so it might not be suitable for young kids. But if you’re a solo traveler or a couple keen to deepen your wine knowledge, this experience hits the right notes.
Final Thoughts
This cellar tour and tasting at Vitteaut-Alberti offers a genuine look at Burgundy’s sparkling wine scene. It balances education with tasting, giving you a well-rounded experience that goes beyond just sipping wine. The emphasis on tradition and craftsmanship makes it stand out among more superficial tastings.
If you’re interested in learning how Crémant de Bourgogne is made and want to enjoy a full, guided tasting in a friendly setting, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially worthwhile if you value understanding the history and process behind your wine, rather than just the label.
While it’s on the pricier side for a tasting, the depth of information and behind-the-scenes access justify the cost for many. Just keep in mind its focus on education, and plan accordingly if you’re after a more casual experience.
This tour is best for those who want more than just a sip—they want to know the story behind the bubbles, and they’ll leave with that knowledge tucked into their wine-loving brains.
Vitteaut-Alberti: cellar tour, tasting of Crémants de Bourgogne
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, so most visitors with mobility concerns should be able to participate comfortably.
How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 105 minutes, giving enough time to explore, learn, and taste without feeling rushed.
Can I cancel the booking if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility in planning.
What languages are available for the guided tour?
The tour is conducted in both French and English, accommodating a broad audience.
Are there any restrictions on bringing food or drinks?
Yes, food and drinks are not allowed during the tour, so plan to enjoy your snacks before or after.
Is the tasting only for adults?
Yes, tasting is reserved for persons aged 18 and over, as per alcohol sale regulations.
What does the tasting include?
You’ll sample the full range of Crémants de Bourgogne produced by Vitteaut-Alberti, along with optional gougères.
Is there a minimum group size?
The provided info doesn’t specify a minimum group, but group sizes are typically manageable for personalized attention.
Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
Since the tasting involves alcohol, non-drinkers may not find this experience suitable, but you might enjoy the cellar visit and learning about the process.
If you’re aiming for a detailed, authentic peek into Burgundy’s sparkling wine making, this tour balances education with enjoyment beautifully. It’s a good pick for those who want to understand the craft and taste some excellent Crémants—whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just a curious traveler.
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