Saint-Emilion Afternoon Tour – 2 Wineries, Tastings & Delicacies

The Saint-Emilion Afternoon Tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the renowned Bordeaux region. Guests can explore the charming medieval town, discover the unique local terroir, and sample acclaimed Bordeaux red wines during guided tastings at two prestigious wineries. The tour also includes a food pairing session featuring delectable regional delicacies, providing a deeper appreciation for the complexities of the area’s winemaking and culinary traditions. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply seeking an enriching cultural experience, this tour promises to transport you to the heart of one of France’s most revered winemaking destinations.

Key Points

• Explore the medieval town of Saint-Emilion, a UNESCO-listed site renowned for its limestone terroir and world-class Bordeaux red wines.
• Visit two acclaimed wineries to learn about the unique winemaking process and sample the region’s signature Merlot and Cabernet Franc blends.
• Set out on a guided walking tour through the charming narrow streets, showcasing the town’s Romanesque and Gothic architecture and panoramic vineyard views.
• Indulge in a food pairing experience at a family-owned winery, where you’ll savor artisanal local delicacies and discover how they complement the finest vintages.
• Gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of the region’s wines, including insights into the impact of soil, climate, and the winemaker’s expertise.

Overview of Saint-Emilion

Nestled in the heart of the Bordeaux wine region, the medieval town of Saint-Emilion is renowned for its UNESCO-listed status and production of world-class red wines.

This picturesque village is home to a rich history, with its limestone quarries, ancient monuments, and winding cobblestone streets transporting visitors back in time.

Saint-Emilion’s limestone terroir and ideal microclimate create the perfect conditions for growing the Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes that are the foundation of its acclaimed wines.

Visitors can explore the town’s historic landmarks, visit family-owned wineries, and indulge in delectable food pairings, offering a truly immersive experience in this iconic Bordeaux region.

Highlights of the Tour

The tour’s highlights include visiting two renowned wineries, exploring the enchanting medieval town of Saint-Emilion on a guided walking tour, and experiencing a food pairing experience at a family-owned winery. At the wineries, you’ll learn about the winemaking process and the unique terroir that gives Saint-Emilion’s wines their distinctive character through tastings and insightful commentary from expert guides. The walking tour through the charming streets of Saint-Emilion offers a glimpse into the town’s rich history and architecture. The food pairing experience at a local family winery pairs the region’s renowned wines with delectable local delicacies, providing a truly authentic taste of Saint-Emilion.

Winery Visits	Saint-Emilion Walking Tour	Food Pairing Experience
Tour the vineyards and cellars	Explore the medieval village	Taste local wines and delicacies
Learn about winemaking and terroir	Discover the town’s history and architecture	Enjoy an authentic culinary experience
Sample the renowned Saint-Emilion wines	Admire the charming streets and buildings	Pair wines with regional specialties
Gain insights from expert wine guides	Experience the town’s historic ambiance	Hosted at a family-run winery

Visiting Two Wineries

The tour kicks off with visits to two renowned wineries in the Saint-Emilion region, providing visitors an immersive experience in the area’s winemaking heritage.

At each winery, knowledgeable guides lead tours through the vineyards and cellars, offering in-depth explanations of the unique terroir and traditional production methods that shape the distinctive character of Saint-Emilion’s acclaimed red wines.

Guests have the opportunity to sample the wineries’ signature blends, gaining a deeper appreciation for the nuances of the region’s celebrated Merlot and Cabernet Franc grapes.

These intimate winery visits not only educate but also delight the senses, setting the stage for the walking tour of the medieval village and the culminating food pairing experience.

Exploring Medieval Saint-Emilion

After the immersive experience at the wineries, the tour takes visitors on a guided walking exploration of the medieval village of Saint-Emilion.

An expert guide leads the way through the charming, narrow streets, highlighting the town’s remarkably well-preserved Romanesque and Gothic architecture that has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status.

The walking tour showcases:

• The iconic Monolithic Church, an underground church carved into solid rock
• The 13th-century Cloister, with its intricately carved arched galleries
• The Chateau du Roy, a stunning manor house dating back to the 12th century
• The Town Walls, offering panoramic views over the rolling vineyards
• The quaint shops, cafes, and artisan workshops that line the cobblestone lanes

Wine Tasting Experiences

Immersing visitors in the art of winemaking, the tour takes them to two acclaimed wineries where they learn about the region’s unique terroir and grape varietals through guided tastings. At each winery, the group explores the production facilities, discovering the meticulous processes that transform grapes into the celebrated Saint-Emilion wines. Tasting notes highlight the distinctive flavors, aromas, and textures of the wines, offering insights into the complexities that result from the interplay of soil, climate, and winemaker’s expertise. The experience culminates in a food pairing session, where guests savor the harmonious marriage of local delicacies and the region’s finest vintages.

Winery 1	Tasting Notes	Grape Varietals
Château Beau-Séjour Bécot	Rich, velvety texture; notes of dark berries, vanilla, and spice	70% Merlot, 22% Cabernet Franc, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon
Winery 2	Tasting Notes	Grape Varietals
Château Ausone	Elegant, complex; aromas of ripe plums, graphite, and violets	55% Cabernet Franc, 45% Merlot

Immersive Food Pairing

Complementing the guided winery tours and tastings, the food pairing experience at a family-run estate allows visitors to savor the nuanced synergy between the region’s prized vintages and local culinary specialties.

Guests are welcomed into the intimate winery setting, where they’ll:

• Indulge in a selection of artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and freshly baked breads
• Learn how the earthy, complex flavors of Saint-Emilion’s acclaimed Merlot and Cabernet Franc blends harmonize with the rich, creamy textures and bold tastes of the regional fare

Guests will also:

• Gain insights into the winemaker’s philosophy and the centuries-old traditions that define this world-renowned terroir
• Revel in the rustic charm of the family-owned property and its idyllic vineyard views

Visitors will emerge with a deeper appreciation for the epicurean delights that make Saint-Emilion a true gastronomic destination.

Logistical Information

The tour typically departs from the Bordeaux Tourist Office, conveniently located in the city center. The afternoon experience lasts several hours and requires a minimum of two travelers to operate; it may be canceled if the minimum isn’t met.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, the provider offers a full refund up to 24 hours in advance for any cancellations. Gratuities are included, so you can sit back and enjoy the journey without worrying about additional costs.

With an expert English-speaking guide leading the way, you’ll have the chance to learn about the rich history and renowned winemaking traditions of the Saint-Emilion region on this small-group tour.

Additional Tour Details

During the Saint-Emilion Afternoon Tour, travelers will have the chance to visit two renowned wineries, where they can take a guided tour, learn about the winemaking process and local terroir, and indulge in tastings of the region’s famous Bordeaux red wines.

Complementing the winery experiences, the tour also includes a guided walking exploration of the picturesque medieval town of Saint-Emilion, allowing participants to enjoy the area’s rich history and charming architecture.

The tour also features a delightful food pairing experience at a family-run winery, providing a well-rounded gastronomic journey.

Throughout the afternoon, travelers can expect:

• Guided tours of 2 prestigious local wineries
• In-depth discussions on winemaking techniques and terroir
• Tastings of the region’s renowned Bordeaux red wines
• Immersive walking tour of the medieval Saint-Emilion village
• Delectable food pairing experience at a family-owned winery

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Children Participate in the Wine Tastings?

Children are generally not permitted to participate in wine tastings, as they must be of legal drinking age. However, the tour may have alternative activities or experiences for children to enjoy while adults participate in the tastings.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated on the Tour?

The tour can accommodate various dietary restrictions. Travelers should notify the operator ahead of time about any special dietary needs, and the winery and food pairing experiences will be tailored accordingly to ensure an enjoyable, inclusive experience for all.

What Should I Wear During the Winery Tours and Walking Tour?

For winery tours and walking tours, one should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. Layers are recommended as temperatures can vary between the indoor and outdoor settings. Bringing a lightweight jacket or sweater is advisable.

Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary or Add Extra Activities?

The tour’s itinerary is generally fixed, but travelers can inquire about customizing the experience or adding extra activities, such as visiting additional wineries or extending the walking tour, subject to availability and additional fees.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for This Tour?

Yes, there may be discounts or packages available for this tour. Customers should check the tour provider’s website or contact them directly to inquire about any special offers or bundled deals that could provide savings on the tour price.

Recap

The Saint-Emilion Afternoon Tour offers an enriching exploration of the renowned Bordeaux region.

Visitors can enjoy the medieval town’s charm, discover the unique local terroir, and savor acclaimed Bordeaux wines through guided tastings and a delectable food pairing experience.

This tour provides a comprehensive appreciation for the complexities of the area’s winemaking and culinary traditions.