Private Beaujolais wine tour

A deep-dive into the Beaujolais wine region with a private tour that combines expert-led tastings, charming villages, and a gourmet picnic—perfect for wine lovers eager to explore beyond the usual.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the opportunity to visit small, passionate wineries that showcase both modern biodynamic practices and traditional methods. Second, the chance to learn from a knowledgeable guide, Hugo, who’s a WSET3 graduate and wine merchant, adding layers of insight you won’t get from just tasting. On the other hand, it’s a pricey experience at over $1,180 per person, so it’s best suited for serious wine enthusiasts looking for a curated and intimate day out.

This experience is ideal for those who want to combine authentic wine tasting, scenic views, and gourmet food in a relaxed setting. If you’re after a personalized look at Beaujolais’ terroirs, with a touch of education and luxury, this is a tour worth considering.

Key Points

• Expert-Led Experience: Guided by Hugo, a wine professional with solid credentials, offering authentic insights into French wine.
• Diverse Wineries: Visits to two distinct wineries—one biodynamic and one traditional—highlighting the region’s winemaking diversity.
• Scenic Locations: Mont Brouilly viewpoint offers spectacular views and understanding of UNESCO-listed terroirs.
• Gourmet Picnic: A thoughtfully curated lunch with wines from the 1960s to today, paired with cheeses and seasonal goodies.
• Luxurious Transport: Private chauffeur in a Tesla, Mercedes E-Class, or V Van ensures comfort throughout the day.
• Flexible & Personalized: Only your group participates, making the experience intimate and flexible.

An In-Depth Look at the Beaujolais Private Wine Tour

Starting the Day with a Personal Touch

The tour kicks off around 9:00 a.m., with pickup at your hotel in Lyon—an effortless start that sets a stress-free tone. From there, you’re whisked away in a private vehicle, choosing between a sleek Tesla or Mercedes, depending on your party size. The luxury transport ensures you’re comfortable and relaxed, setting the scene for a day of wine discovery.

First Stop: Fleurie – Biodynamic & Passionate Winemakers

Our first destination is a small, biodynamically managed winery in Fleurie, located right in the heart of the 10 regional crus. This winery is a fantastic choice to start the day, as it’s part of the new wave of Beaujolais producers focusing on organic and sustainable practices.

We loved the way the guide and the winemakers shared their passion—reviewers especially appreciated Hugo’s storytelling, noting that he “took us to three small houses and the winemakers were passionate about their wine and the Beaujolais terroir.” The winery’s focus on biodynamics offers an authentic peek into how the region is evolving.

You’ll sample roughly six wines, including an impressive vintage from the past, giving you a taste of how the wines have aged and evolved. This visit offers a real contrast to commercial, mass-produced Beaujolais, highlighting small-scale craftsmanship and the region’s diversity.

Second Stop: Villie-Morgon – Tradition and Family Heritage

Next, we visit a winery that practices winemaking as it was done in the 1970s and 1980s. This choice is deliberate, providing a historical perspective on how techniques and flavor profiles have shifted across generations. Because it’s still family-run, you get a sense of the passion and continuity that characterizes many of Beaujolais’ vineyards.

Again, about six wines are tasted, including an older vintage, which allows you to compare different eras of winemaking. This visit was particularly popular among reviewers, with Beverly saying it was “a perfect guide—Hugo took us to small houses, and the winemakers’ passion for their work really shone through.”

Scenic Highlight: Mont Brouilly – UNESCO World Heritage Site Views

Midday, the tour takes a short drive to Mont Brouilly, where you’ll enjoy a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the surrounding vineyards. This site is part of the UNESCO World Heritage designation for Beaujolais terroirs, giving you a visual appreciation of the landscape’s significance.

The view from Mont Brouilly isn’t just pretty—it’s an educational moment to understand how the terroir influences wines, with the unique soil and elevation contributing to the region’s character. It’s a quick stop, but one that adds depth to your understanding of what makes Beaujolais special.

Lunch in the Hills of Beaujolais

Post-viewpoint, you’ll settle into a hillside spot for a gourmet picnic that lasts about three hours. This isn’t just a sandwich on a picnic table—think seasonal, locally sourced produce paired with wines spanning from the 1960s to today. The experience is enhanced by the expert commentary from Hugo, who discusses how wine styles have changed over decades.

The pairing of a dozen cheeses, regional delicacies, and gourmet products makes this a highlight for foodies. Reviewers like Ashley called the lunch “delicious” and “perfectly paired,” noting that it was “well worth it” to enjoy such high-quality food in a stunning setting.

Final Tasting & Return to Lyon

Before heading back, the day concludes with a final tasting at a third, carefully selected winery. This last stop rounds out your understanding of Gamay grape and its evolution, with wines that span decades.

You’ll be back in Lyon around 6:00-7:00 p.m., feeling well-fed, educated, and with the chance to purchase wines directly from the wineries—many of which can be shipped home.

What Makes This Tour Special?

This private tour is designed for travelers seeking more than just tasting wine. It’s about understanding the nuances of the Beaujolais region—its history, its terroirs, and its passionate producers. The visit to both biodynamic and traditional wineries offers a balanced view of current trends and longstanding practices.

The personalized attention ensures you get tailored insights from Hugo, who’s clearly passionate and knowledgeable. His background as a wine merchant and WSET3 graduate adds credibility and depth to the commentary. Several reviewers praised Hugo’s professionalism and storytelling, highlighting how meaningful the educational aspect was.

On top of that, the scenic locations and gourmet picnic add a layer of leisure and indulgence often missing from larger, group tours. The luxury vehicle and private chauffeur elevate the experience, making it feel exclusive without sacrificing comfort.

Considering the Price: Is It Worth It?

At over $1,180 per person, this is certainly a premium experience. However, given the private nature, expert guidance, curated visits, gourmet lunch, and luxury transport, it offers a level of value that’s hard to match at this price point.

Compared to typical group tours, you get an intimate, flexible itinerary with exclusive access to smaller wineries and a focus on authentic, craft-driven wine production. The inclusion of a comprehensive picnic and the chance to buy and ship wines home add further value.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a wine enthusiast eager to deepen your understanding of French wines, especially Gamay and Beaujolais, this tour will satisfy your curiosity. It’s also suited for travelers who appreciate luxury, personalized service, and scenic, relaxed days out.

Conversely, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more casual experience, this might feel a bit indulgent. But for those who want a curated, educational journey through one of France’s most charming wine regions, this tour hits the spot.

The Sum Up

This private Beaujolais wine tour offers a rare blend of intimate winery visits, expert insights, and stunning scenery—all wrapped in a luxurious package. It’s perfect for those who value authenticity, education, and high-quality wines with a side of scenic views and gourmet food.

While the price tag is on the higher end, the personalized experience, direct access to passionate winemakers, and comprehensive itinerary make it a worthwhile investment for serious wine lovers. If you’re looking for an engaging, well-rounded day blending culture, nature, and fine wine, this tour could be your highlight in Lyon.

Designed for curious, discerning travelers eager to explore the depths of Beaujolais beyond the mass-market wines, it’s a chance to truly taste the region’s soul—and take some of that taste home with you.

FAQ

How early do I need to book this tour?
Most travelers book about 48 days in advance, which helps ensure availability, especially during peak seasons.

Is transportation included?
Yes, a private chauffeur will drive you in a Tesla, Mercedes E-Class, or Mercedes V Van, providing a comfortable and stress-free experience throughout the day.

Can I purchase wines during the tour?
Absolutely. Wines tasted during the day can be bought and shipped directly to your home, offering a convenient way to take a piece of Beaujolais home.

What is the tour duration?
The whole experience lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting at 9:00 a.m. and returning in the evening.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your party will participate—perfect for personalized attention and tailored experiences.

Are children or service animals allowed?
Service animals are permitted, and most travelers can participate, but it’s best to confirm if you have specific needs.

What is the food like during the picnic?
The picnic features seasonal gourmet products, cheeses, and regional delicacies, paired thoughtfully with wines from different decades.

What if I need to cancel?
Cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour may not be refunded.

Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or simply looking to indulge in a beautiful day of wine, scenery, and gourmet food, this private Beaujolais wine tour offers a memorable, insightful experience few other tours can match.