From Dijon: Côte de Nuits & Côte de Beaune Vineyards Tour

Exploring Burgundy’s legendary wine regions in just one day might sound ambitious, but this tour from Dijon makes it surprisingly manageable and rewarding. Designed for wine enthusiasts and curious travelers alike, it offers a carefully curated peek into the heart of Burgundy’s famous vineyards, with three guided tastings and charming stops along the way. The small group setup ensures an intimate experience, with personalized attention from an expert guide.

One of the things we particularly like about this tour is how it combines the scenic beauty of Burgundy’s countryside with authentic visits to select wineries. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at both Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune, home to some of the world’s most renowned Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines. However, a potential consideration is the tight schedule—if you prefer a more relaxed pace or extensive winery visits, this might feel a bit brisk.

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Burgundy’s top wine regions without the hassle of planning individual visits. It’s perfect for those short on time but eager to taste some of France’s most celebrated wines with an expert guide by their side.

Key Points

• Full-day Burgundy exploration including both Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune.
• Three guided wine tastings at carefully chosen wineries and cellars.
• Visit iconic spots like Beaune and its historic Hospices, with free time to explore.
• Small group size (limited to 8 participants) for a more personalized experience.
• Expert guide with extensive knowledge of Burgundy wines and regions.
• Convenient pickup and drop-off at a central Dijon location, with premium transportation.

Discover the Wine Regions of Burgundy

This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Burgundy’s top wine areas, specifically the Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune, both famed for their unique styles and world-class wines. Starting from Dijon, you’ll journey through lush vineyards and rolling hills, with stops designed to maximize your tasting experience.

The first winery visit occurs in Côte de Nuits around 10 AM. Known for producing complex, bold Pinot Noir, this area is a must-see for reds lovers. The guide’s insights help you understand the nuances that make Burgundy Pinot Noir distinctive—think delicate cherry and earthy undertones with a velvety texture. The tasting here lasts roughly an hour, giving you time to soak in the atmosphere and ask questions.

Next, you’ll make your way to Beaune, arriving at around 11 AM. This historic town is famous for its elegant Chardonnay and charming streets. The stop here isn’t just about wine; you also get to stroll through the quaint town center and admire landmarks like the Hospices de Beaune—an iconic medieval hospital with colorful tiled roofs. You’ll have some free time for lunch (at your own expense), with plenty of local cafés offering regional specialties.

In the afternoon, the route takes you along the renowned Route des Grands Crus to Meursault, where a 1.5-hour tasting awaits. Known for its stunning white Burgundies, Meursault produces wines with rich buttery notes, lively acidity, and a balanced minerality. Reviewers have appreciated the quality of the tastings here, describing the wines as “excellent” with “great variety” that really showcase the region’s white wine excellence.

Throughout the day, the guide ensures you’re not just sampling wines but understanding their origins, what to look for, and how regional differences influence flavor profiles. This makes the experience educational, helping you appreciate your bottles long after the tour ends.

The Wineries and Tastings

The three wine tastings are the core of this tour. Each is hosted at a different winery or cellar, providing diverse perspectives within Burgundy’s acclaimed wine landscape. The wineries are selected for their quality and authenticity, often with histories that add to the experience.

The first stop in Côte de Nuits focuses on Pinot Noir, giving a taste of the bold reds Burgundy is renowned for. Visitors often mention how the guide’s explanations deepened their understanding of Burgundy’s unique terroir and wine-making techniques.

The Beaune tasting emphasizes the elegance of Chardonnay, with some reviews noting that the wines sampled are “world-famous” and “remarkably refined.” The guide’s insights into how Burgundy’s climate, soil, and tradition influence these wines help to elevate the tasting experience.

Finally, in Meursault, the white Burgundy tasting highlights the region’s white wine mastery. Expect to sample well-crafted wines that balance richness with crisp acidity—a true highlight for lovers of white wine.

The Journey in Comfort and Style

Transportation is handled in a premium vehicle, making the roughly 8-hour day comfortable and stress-free. Pickup and drop-off at the central Dijon meeting point (16 Place Darcy) are included, making logistics simple for travelers staying in Dijon.

With a group limited to 8 people, the experience strikes a good balance between intimacy and camaraderie. Many reviewers appreciate how this small group size enables the guide to provide a more tailored experience, answering questions and offering personal insights.

The tour operates with flexibility—cancellation is free up to 24 hours beforehand, and booking is flexible with the “reserve now, pay later” feature. This makes it easier to adapt to changing plans or weather conditions.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $187 per person offers solid value considering the three guided tastings, transportation, and expert guidance. All tasting fees are covered, which can otherwise add up at wineries. Plus, photo opportunities (weather permitting) and a chance to explore Beaune add to the overall experience.

However, the tour doesn’t include lunch—so travelers should plan to enjoy some regional cuisine during their free time in Beaune or bring snacks. Entrance fees to any additional sites aren’t included unless specified, so it’s worth carrying some cash or cards for extras.

Personal expenses and travel insurance aren’t covered, so travelers should ensure they’re adequately protected.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers eager to explore Burgundy’s most famous regions without the hassle of DIY planning. The guided aspect adds depth and context, making it perfect for those wanting to learn as they taste. It’s also well-suited for travelers short on time but who want a rundown of Burgundy.

It might be less suitable for children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, given the walking involved and the adult-only policy. The pace is busy, so if you prefer a leisurely, unstructured day, some may find it a little fast-paced.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Dijon offers a well-balanced mix of scenic drives, historical sights, and excellent wine tastings in Burgundy’s top regions. The inclusion of three carefully chosen wineries and a knowledgeable guide ensures you gain not only a taste of the wines but also an appreciation of their origins and nuances.

You’ll love the way the trip combines educational insights with authentic experiences, all within a manageable schedule that minimizes fuss. The small-group setting encourages a more personal and engaging interaction, making it ideal for wine enthusiasts who want a deeper understanding of Burgundy’s viticultural treasures.

While it’s a bit structured and doesn’t include lunch, the quality of the tastings and the comfort of the transportation make it worth considering. This tour delivers a solid introduction to Burgundy’s celebrated wines, perfect for those wanting to sample the best without overcommitting time or money.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, from departure in the morning around 9 AM to returning to Dijon around 5 PM.

What is included in the price?
All three wine tastings at different wineries are included, as well as transportation in a premium vehicle, pickup and drop-off at the central Dijon meeting point, and the services of an expert English-speaking guide.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 16 Place Darcy in Dijon and concludes back in Dijon, making it convenient for travelers based in or near the city.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. There’s free time in Beaune for you to explore and dine at your own expense.

What wines will I taste?
You’ll sample some of the region’s finest Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, with the first stop focusing on bold reds and the later stops showcasing elegant whites.

How many people are on this tour?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, creating a small, intimate atmosphere.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, it’s adult-only and not suitable for children or pregnant women due to the nature of wine tasting and walking involved.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and a reusable water bottle are recommended, as there’s some walking involved and the weather can vary.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s advisable to reserve ahead, especially since the tour requires a minimum of 2 adults to operate. You can reserve with flexible payment options and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This kind of experience offers a fantastic way to understand Burgundy’s wine culture, enjoy scenic views, and taste some truly exceptional wines—all with the guidance of someone who knows the region inside out. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just curious, this tour packs enough depth and quality to make it a highlight of your Burgundy visit.