Private Beaujolais Wine Tour

Opting for a private Beaujolais wine tour offers an experience that balances expert guidance, intimate tastings, and authentic regional charm. This particular journey, led by a certified French sommelier from Jeanguyot Wine Agency, promises not just a tasting but a full immersion into one of France’s most beloved wine regions. From discovering small family wineries to sampling vintages from the 1960s, this tour feels designed for wine lovers craving a personalized, educational, and delicious day out.

One feature we really appreciated is the inclusion of a masterclass on vintage wines—a rare treat that elevates this beyond typical tasting tours. Plus, the luxury of a private chauffeur in a sleek electric vehicle really enhances comfort and flexibility. However, the price point of over $1,200 per person might give some pause, especially considering the price of wines and meals are included but add-on purchases are possible.

This experience is best suited for travelers who value intimate, expert-led tours—those eager to learn about French wines in a relaxed, upscale environment. If you’re after a deep dive into Beaujolais’ unique grape varieties and vintage stories, this tour won’t disappoint.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private group, guided by a certified sommelier, with tailored insights into wine production.
• Authentic Wine Tastings: Nearly 20 wines from small wineries, including old vintages and barrel tastings.
• Educational Masterclass: Unique chance to explore vintage wines from the 1960s to today.
• Gourmet Lunch: A delicious meal paired with Beaujolais wines, in a scenic, high-altitude setting.
• Luxurious Transport: Traveling in an electric Tesla or Mercedes Class E or V enhances comfort.
• Flexible & Convenient: Pickup from Lyon or other major locations, with full-day itinerary designed for maximum immersion.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Starting Point and Transport

The tour kicks off at around 9 a.m., with pickup options from six major locations including Lyon, Paris, Geneva, Nice, Beaune, and Avignon. This flexibility in starting points means you don’t have to worry about complicated transfers—just hop in and relax. The transport itself is a highlight, with a private chauffeur driving you in a modern, environmentally friendly vehicle. We loved the smooth ride in a luxury Tesla or Mercedes, which made the journey between vineyards feel as indulgent as the tastings themselves.

The drive takes roughly an hour to reach the first winery, giving you a chance to settle in comfortably and indulge in some scenic views of the rolling Beaujolais vineyards. This set-up means you arrive at each location refreshed and ready to explore.

First Wineries and Vineyards

Once at the first winery, the experience truly begins. The guided visit includes walking through the vines, learning about the specific grape varieties—most notably Gamay—and observing the traditional methods used by small, family-run wineries. The tours here are described as guided, with knowledgeable hosts happy to answer questions about everything from soil types to fermentation techniques.

Tasting Old Vintages and Barrel Sampling

The highlight of these visits is the tasting sessions where you’ll sample wines that span nearly a century—yes, vintage wines from the 20th century. Several reviews mention that the opportunity to taste such rare older vintages, sometimes straight from barrels, provides a unique window into the evolution of Beaujolais wines. One reviewer quoted, “Having the chance to taste 1960s wines was surreal; it really puts the modern bottles into perspective.”

The small wineries emphasize personalized attention, often led by the winemaker. This allows guests to ask detailed questions about the aging process, vintage differences, and even storage conditions, making the experience both educational and intimate.

The Scenic Picnic and Vintage Wine Tasting

Around 1 p.m., the group moves to a spectacular elevated spot in the hills of Beaujolais for a picnic lunch. This isn’t your average packed sandwich—expect a carefully curated spread of seasonal cheeses, gourmet products, and a dozen cheeses to pair with wines from the 1960s to recent vintages. The setting, with panoramic views over the vineyards, makes this a memorable part of the day.

During lunch, the sommelier guides a tasting of vintage wines, offering insights into how the Gamay grape expresses itself across different decades. This kind of chronological tasting is rare and highly valued—providing a tangible sense of how winemaking techniques and climate have influenced flavor profiles over time.

Final Winery and Wrap-up

The last stop takes place at Juliénas, another small winery, with an 80-minute guided tour and tasting. Here, you’ll sample more wines and perhaps ask about the nuances of terroir and fermentation practices. The entire day culminates with a final tasting session before heading back to Lyon around 5 p.m.

The Itinerary’s Practicalities

The day is thoughtfully scheduled to include three major wine tastings, a scenic lunch, and multiple vineyard visits—all within a 9-hour window. Each visit lasts approximately 75-80 minutes, giving enough time to savor the wines and ask questions without feeling rushed. The private chauffeur ensures seamless transitions between stops, and the overall pace allows for both learning and relaxing.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The expert guidance from a WSET3-certified sommelier is further enriched by the host Hugo from Jeanguyot Wine Agency, whose depth of knowledge and approachable style earn high praise from past guests. Many reviews highlight how Hugo’s insights made the tasting sessions more engaging, clarifying complex concepts and sharing personal anecdotes about French wine culture.

Another valued aspect is the focus on small family wineries, which often remain under the radar but produce exceptional wines. This provides an authentic taste of regional craftsmanship and allows you to connect directly with passionate winemakers—an experience hard to replicate in larger, commercial wineries.

The vintage masterclass is particularly appreciated, with one guest calling it a “highlight” that gave context to the wines’ flavors and aging potential. The opportunity to compare wines from different eras helps deepen understanding and appreciation for French winemaking traditions.

Cost and Value Considerations

At $1,287 per person, this private tour is an investment—especially considering the inclusive nature of transport, tastings, and lunch. For gourmets and oenophiles, the value lies in the personalized experience, access to rare vintages, and expert guidance. It’s a premium experience, but one that offers depth and authenticity beyond typical group tastings.

Who Should Consider This?

This tour suits travelers who are serious about wine, eager to learn from professionals, and comfortable with a higher price tag for a premium experience. It’s ideal for those who appreciate small-scale wineries, vintage wines, and scenic settings. If you prefer self-guided or larger group tours, this may not be the best fit, but for intimate, educational outings, it delivers.

Final Thoughts

This private Beaujolais wine tour offers more than just tastings; it’s a carefully curated journey into the heart of a beloved French wine region. From the personalized visits at small wineries to tasting vintages from decades past, every aspect is designed to educate and indulge wine enthusiasts. The combination of expert guidance, scenic landscapes, and gourmet lunch makes it a memorable day.

While the price point might seem steep, the depth of experience, access to rare wines, and the comfort of private transportation make it worth considering for those seeking a luxurious, authentic French wine adventure. It’s particularly well-suited for couples, wine aficionados, and anyone craving a private, insightful exploration of Beaujolais.

For travelers wanting an intimate, expert-led experience with a focus on vintage wines and regional charm, this tour provides a comprehensive and indulgent taste of the Beaujolais.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for wine novices?
Absolutely. The guide’s explanations and the opportunity to ask questions make it accessible for beginners, while still offering plenty for seasoned wine lovers.

How long is the drive between locations?
The drive between key stops takes about an hour, providing enough time to relax and enjoy the scenery in a luxurious vehicle.

Are wines available for purchase?
Yes, wines can be bought during the tour and shipped to your home, allowing you to take a piece of Beaujolais back with you.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, three wine tastings at wineries, a full gourmet lunch with vintages, and the guidance of a WSET3-certified sommelier.

Can I customize the pickup location?
Yes, there are six pickup options, including Lyon, Paris, Geneva, Nice, Beaune, and Avignon, offering flexibility based on your travel plans.

Is the transportation eco-friendly?
Yes, the private chauffeur drives a modern electric vehicle, aligning with sustainable travel preferences.

This detailed review should help you decide whether this private Beaujolais wine tour matches your interests and travel style. For an authentic, educational, and luxurious day among France’s renowned vineyards, it’s a well-rounded choice.