Nestled in the heart of Burgundy’s renowned wine region, Beaune is home to Maison Champy, the oldest wine company in the area. Visitors can embark on a guided cellar tour that unveils three centuries of winemaking history. The 1.5-hour experience allows guests to explore the 15th-century cellars, seeing the rich heritage and exceptional terroir that defines Maison Champy’s renowned savoir-faire. As the tour culminates in a tasting of village and premier cru wines, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s unparalleled winemaking legacy. What awaits those who venture into Maison Champy’s hallowed cellars might just surprise and delight even the most seasoned oenophile.
This experience made our list of the 17 Best Wine Tours In Beaune.
Key Points
- The 1.5-hour guided cellar tour at the oldest Burgundian wine company, Maison Champy, allows visitors to explore its 15th-century wine cellars and taste 5 Village and Premier Cru wines.
- The tour is offered in both French and English, providing an immersive experience into Burgundy’s rich wine heritage and the legacy of Maison Champy.
- Beaune, the capital of the Burgundian wine region, is the tour’s setting, where visitors can admire the well-preserved medieval town and its famous landmarks.
- The wine tasting includes a Bourgogne Blanc, a Beaune 1er Cru, a Pommard 1er Cru, a Volnay 1er Cru, and a Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru, showcasing the exceptional terroir of the region.
- The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or children under 18, and certain health or mobility restrictions may prevent participation due to the physical requirements.
Tour Details
The guided cellar tour at Maison Champy lasts for 1.5 hours and is offered in both French and English.
This tour allows visitors to retrace three centuries of history at the oldest wine company in Burgundy. Guests will explore Beaune, the capital of the Burgundian wine region, and discover the story of Maison Champy, which dates back to 1720.
During the tour, visitors will walk inside the 15th-century wine cellars and taste five Village and Premier Cru wines. The tour is guided, and the tasting of the five wines is included.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or children under 18 years of age.
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Tour Highlights
Visitors on the guided cellar tour at Maison Champy can retrace three centuries of history at the oldest wine company in Burgundy. The tour allows guests to explore Beaune, the capital of the Burgundian wine region, and discover the captivating story of Maison Champy dating back to 1720.
Highlights include:
- Walking through the 15th-century wine cellars
- Tasting 5 Village and Premier Cru wines
- Learning about the evolution of winemaking at Maison Champy
Visitors can also:
- Admire the historic architecture and ambiance of the property
- Gain a deeper appreciation for the rich wine heritage of the region
Exploring Beaune
Beaune, the capital of the Burgundian wine region, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the rich history and vibrant culture that has made this area renowned for its exceptional wines.
As the heart of the Côte d’Or, Beaune boasts a well-preserved medieval town center, dotted with charming cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and historic landmarks.
Visitors can explore the famous Hôtel-Dieu, a 15th-century hospital with its stunning multicolored roof tiles, or wander through the bustling weekly market, where local producers showcase their finest vintages and artisanal products.
From the quaint shops and cafés to the impressive wine cellars and tasting rooms, Beaune embodies the spirit of Burgundian winemaking and invites travelers to enjoy the region’s timeless allure.
Maison Champy’s Legacy
Maison Champy, the oldest wine company in Burgundy, traces its esteemed lineage back to 1720, when it first opened its doors in the heart of Beaune. Over three centuries, this iconic estate has witnessed and shaped the evolution of the region’s renowned viniculture.
Its guided cellar tour offers visitors a glimpse into this storied history:
- Explore the 15th-century cellars that have housed generations of Champy’s finest vintages.
- Discover the company’s tale, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a Burgundian institution.
- Learn about the meticulous winemaking process that imbues each bottle with the essence of the terroir.
- Savor a tasting of five Village and Premier Cru wines, showcasing the depth and complexity of Burgundian varietals.
Enjoy the timeless traditions that have made Maison Champy a revered name in the world of oenology.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyGuided Tour Experience
The guided cellar tour at Maison Champy takes visitors on a 1.5-hour journey through three centuries of Burgundian wine history. Conducted in both French and English, the immersive experience allows guests to retrace the story of the region’s oldest wine company, dating back to 1720.
Visitors will explore the 15th-century wine cellars and discover the legacy of Maison Champy. The tour culminates in a tasting of five Village and Premier Cru wines, giving participants a chance to savor the fruits of the company’s labor.
Whether a wine enthusiast or a history buff, the Maison Champy cellar tour offers a unique glimpse into the heart of the Burgundian wine region.
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Wine Tasting Included
At the culmination of the guided tour, visitors have the opportunity to taste a selection of five Village and Premier Cru wines produced by Maison Champy, allowing them to directly experience the fruits of the company’s centuries-old winemaking legacy.
The tasting includes:
- A vibrant Bourgogne Blanc with notes of citrus and minerality
- A smooth, elegant Beaune 1er Cru with hints of red berries
- A rich, complex Pommard 1er Cru showcasing the power of Pinot Noir
- A full-bodied Volnay 1er Cru brimming with ripe, velvety tannins
- A graceful Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru, delicate yet intense
This immersive tasting provides guests with a deep appreciation for the exceptional terroir and savoir-faire that have defined Maison Champy’s legacy for over 300 years.
Meeting Point Location
Visitors can find the meeting point for the Maison Champy guided cellar tour at 5 rue du grenier à sel in Beaune, the capital of the Burgundian wine region.
This historic address is home to the oldest wine company in Burgundy, dating back to 1720.
From this central location, tour-goers will embark on a 1.5-hour journey through three centuries of winemaking history.
The guided tour includes exploring the 15th-century wine cellars and tasting five village and premier cru wines produced by the renowned Maison Champy.
Whether visiting Beaune for the first time or returning to this picturesque town, the Maison Champy tour offers an immersive experience showcasing the heart of Burgundy’s winemaking heritage.
Restrictions and Limitations
While the Maison Champy guided cellar tour offers an immersive experience in Beaune’s winemaking heritage, there are a few restrictions and limitations visitors should be aware of before booking the tour.
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women.
Children under the age of 18 aren’t allowed to participate.
The tour involves navigating through the 15th-century wine cellars, which may not be accessible for all visitors.
Certain health or mobility restrictions could prevent participation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Wine to the Tasting?
No, bringing one’s own wine is not allowed during the tour and tasting. The tour includes a guided exploration of the wine cellars and a tasting of 5 wines provided by the winery.
Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?
The tour is not wheelchair accessible, as the 15th-century wine cellars may have uneven surfaces and narrow passageways that could pose challenges for wheelchair users. However, guests with mobility concerns should contact the tour operator to discuss potential accommodations.
Are Photos Allowed During the Tour?
Photos are generally allowed during the guided tour, but visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the experience. It’s best to check with the tour guide for any specific restrictions or guidelines regarding photography.
Can I Purchase Additional Wine After the Tasting?
Yes, visitors can purchase additional wine after the tasting. The tour includes a tasting of 5 wines, but guests are welcome to explore and purchase more wines from the cellar’s selection at the end of the experience.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no formal dress code for the tour. Visitors should wear comfortable, casual clothing that is suitable for walking in a wine cellar environment. Warm layers may be recommended as the cellars can be cool.
Recap
Maison Champy’s 1.5-hour guided cellar tour in Beaune offers an immersive experience into the region’s 300-year-old wine heritage.
Guests can explore the 15th-century wine cellars, learn about the exceptional terroir, and enjoy a tasting of five village and premier cru wines, showcasing the company’s savoir-faire.
This tour provides a unique opportunity to discover the rich history and exceptional quality of Burgundian winemaking.
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