St-Emilion & Médoc Combine Day Tour including Wine Tastings and Lunch

Setting out on a wine tour in Bordeaux often feels like entering a world of centuries-old vineyards, charming villages, and some of the most celebrated wines on the planet. This particular experience, the St-Emilion & Médoc Combine Day Tour, offers a well-balanced blend of sightseeing, wine education, and tasting indulgence—all wrapped into one satisfying nine-hour journey. Guided by knowledgeable hosts from Rustic Vines, it promises a chance to explore both the Left and Right Bank wineries, as well as the medieval jewel of Saint-Emilion, with plenty of tastings and a delicious picnic lunch.

What really shines about this tour is its small-group setting, generally capped at eight travelers, which makes it feel intimate and personalized. Plus, the comprehensive itinerary manages to cover key highlights without feeling rushed. The only thing to consider? The full day can be quite packed, which means pacing yourself and being ready for a lot of wine — straightforward, but worth noting for those who prefer a slower, more relaxed approach.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, education, and tasting in Bordeaux’s most iconic wine regions. Whether you’re a novice eager to learn or a seasoned wine lover craving new discoveries, this experience aims to satisfy. If you prefer private or ultra-luxury options, or want to explore other regions, there might be alternatives better suited. But for those looking for great value, engaging guides, and a taste of authentic Bordeaux, this is a very tempting choice.

Key Points

• Intimate Group Size: Small groups ensure personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Comprehensive Experience: Combines visits to both Médoc and Saint-Emilion, giving a well-rounded view of Bordeaux’s wine landscape.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Maude, Daniella, and Susanne are praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and personal touch.
• Tasting & Education: Multiple tastings at family-run and grand cru estates make for an educational yet delicious day.
• Authentic Village Experience: Saint-Emilion’s medieval charm and scenic streets add a picturesque touch to the day.
• Gourmet Picnic Lunch: A traditional French-style meal paired with wine adds a true taste of local culture.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting Point in Bordeaux

Your day begins at the Rustic Vines meeting point in Bordeaux, where you’ll meet your guide, often someone with a wealth of local knowledge and a friendly demeanor. From here, it’s about a 45-minute drive out to the Médoc region, the world-famous wine hub known for its classified châteaux and Bordeaux’s flagship reds.

Château Margaux – Photo Stop

Your first stop at Château Margaux is purely for a quick photo, but it’s a meaningful one. As a First Growth classified estate from 1855, Margaux’s iconic silhouette is instantly recognizable. While you won’t be touring the estate itself, catching a glimpse here offers a sense of Bordeaux’s prestigious wine heritage.

Château Siran – Family-Owned Charm

Next, you head to Château Siran for a guided visit and tastings. This estate is a fantastic example of a family-run vineyard, with reviews highlighting how guides make their guests feel welcomed and well-informed. Expect to learn about the wine-making process in Médoc, with tastings that help you understand the region’s signature style—structured reds with deep character.

Château Bonalgue – Saint-Emilion’s First Stop

Afterward, it’s time for a visit to Château Bonalgue, marking your entry into Saint-Emilion’s wine scene. This estate is notable for being the first winery you visit within the Saint-Emilion region during the tour, and it offers a combination of guided tasting and insight into local wine production. Reviews mention that the wines here are “magnificent,” and guides make sure you understand the nuances behind each sip.

Picnic Lunch with Wine

No Bordeaux wine tour is complete without a good meal, and this tour offers a classic French picnic in a lovely setting. The lunch includes a selection of local items paired with wine, giving you a genuine taste of regional cuisine. Multiple reviews mention how delicious the picnic is, with some stating it’s “absolutely delicious” and “bottomless” in terms of wine.

Château Balestard La Tonnelle – Saint-Emilion Grand Cru

Following lunch, you visit Château Balestard La Tonnelle, a renowned Saint-Emilion Grand Cru estate. Here, the tastings are highly praised, with guests noting the “beautiful vineyards” and “captivating” atmosphere. The estate’s wines are representative of the region’s finesse, and guides are said to bring out the best in each experience.

Saint-Emilion Village Tour & Tasting

The highlight for many is the walk through the UNESCO-listed medieval village of Saint-Emilion. The guided tour offers a glimpse into the town’s history, its labyrinth of cobbled streets, and iconic landmarks. Reviewers say the town’s charm is undeniable, with one mentioning it “gave us the chance to walk around a bit more” and to soak in the atmosphere. You’ll also enjoy a separate wine tasting session in the heart of the village, giving you the chance to sample local wines in a lively setting.

Return to Bordeaux

After a full day of exploring, tasting, and sightseeing, you’ll head back to Bordeaux, with the guide sharing insights and stories along the way. The return trip is about 45 minutes, giving you some time to reflect on the day’s highlights.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At around $226.76 per person, this experience packs in an impressive amount of value. It includes transportation, guided visits to multiple wineries, a picnic lunch paired with wine, and time in Saint-Emilion — all without the hassle of planning logistics or driving yourself. The fact that most reviews highlight the knowledgeable hosts and high-quality tastings suggests that the price reflects a well-curated, authentic experience.

The emphasis on small groups and personalized attention means you won’t be lost in a sea of travelers. Instead, you’ll get your questions answered, tips from guides, and insider views of Bordeaux’s wine culture — all in a relaxed, friendly setting.

The Experience in Practice

The tour’s pacing is generally well-received, with many reviewers noting that the day flies by because of the engaging stops. Several mention that guides like Maude, Daniella, and Susanne make a significant difference, thanks to their enthusiasm, local knowledge, and willingness to go above and beyond — like helping with lost items or suggesting extra tastings.

One reviewer pointed out that they would have liked more time in Saint-Emilion; however, most appreciate that the itinerary balances sightseeing and tasting without feeling overly rushed. The visit to both Médoc and Saint-Emilion means you get a comprehensive picture of Bordeaux’s wine diversity — from the structured reds of Médoc to the elegant, historic wines of Saint-Emilion.

Transportation & Group Size

With air-conditioned vehicles and a small group size, the experience is comfortable and intimate. This is especially valuable in a region where vineyards and villages can be crowded during peak times. Plus, the meeting point and drop-off are conveniently located in Bordeaux, making logistics straightforward.

Dietary Options & Accessibility

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a vegetarian option available. Most activities are accessible, and the tour confirms that confirmation is received upon booking, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Bordeaux day trip is perfect for travelers seeking a well-rounded, engaging, and authentic wine experience without the hassle of organizing multiple visits themselves. It suits those who value independent exploration combined with expert guidance, and who want to taste a variety of wines along the way. The combination of sightseeing, wine education, and delicious local food makes it ideal for both wine novices and seasoned connoisseurs alike.

If you’re after a deliberately curated experience that balances education, sightseeing, and tastings, this tour hits the mark. Its small-group setting fosters a friendly, relaxed vibe — making it a wonderful way to connect with fellow travelers and deepen your appreciation for Bordeaux’s renowned wines.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Bordeaux is provided, with an air-conditioned vehicle making the journey comfortable and hassle-free.

What is the group size?
Most tours are limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring an intimate, personalized experience.

Does the tour accommodate vegetarian diets?
Yes, a vegetarian lunch option is available. You should specify this during the booking process.

How long is the overall tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, starting and ending in Bordeaux.

Are wine tastings included?
Absolutely. Multiple tastings are built into the itinerary at a variety of wineries, from family-run estates to grand cru châteaux.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start time.

Is this suitable for children or non-drinkers?
While primarily focused on wine, the tour’s sightseeing and cultural elements make it interesting for those interested in Bordeaux’s history and scenery. However, the core experience revolves around wine tasting.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking in Saint-Emilion and casual attire suitable for the weather are recommended.

In summary, this tour offers a well-crafted journey through Bordeaux’s most celebrated wine regions, blending picturesque scenery, expert-guided tastings, and authentic local culture. Its small-group approach, outstanding guides, and delicious lunch make it a superb choice for anyone wanting to truly experience Bordeaux’s vinous delights without the fuss. Whether you’re a wine novice or a connoisseur, the memories and bottles you bring home will be well worth the investment.