Private Tasting in Beaune : The Best of Burgundy Wines

Traveling to Beaune and Burgundy isn’t complete without exploring the region’s acclaimed wines. This private tasting experience offers a fantastic opportunity to dive into Burgundy’s legendary terroirs with a dedicated sommelier guiding you through a curated selection of some of the world’s most sought-after wines. For wine enthusiasts eager to deepen their understanding or simply enjoy a memorable, personalized experience, this tour promises both education and enjoyment.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the personalized tutelage—you’re not part of a large group but have the chance to ask questions directly and receive tailored commentary. Plus, tasting seven different Premier and Grand Cru wines from various producers ensures you’ll sample the very best Burgundy has to offer. While some might find the price point reasonable for such an exclusive, in-depth experience, those seeking a quick or purely social tasting might consider other options. This tour suits anyone with a genuine interest in quality Burgundy wines, especially if you value expert insights and a relaxed, intimate setting.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with a knowledgeable sommelier guiding you through seven top wines.
• Exclusive access to Premier and Grand Cru Burgundy wines, both red and white.
• Flexible commentary in your preferred language, with ample opportunity for questions.
• Tasting room and shop offering a wide selection of wines to purchase, including vintage bottles.
• Value for money considering the quality, expert guidance, and the chance to buy wines shipped worldwide.
• Small group setting ensures a relaxed and private atmosphere.

An Authentic Burgundy Wine Experience in Beaune

This private tasting is hosted at Millésimes à la Carte, a dedicated 200m² space in Beaune that’s been welcoming wine lovers for over ten years. It’s a place for those who want more than just a tasting—they want to understand Burgundy’s complex terroirs, history, and winemaking secrets. The ambiance is warm but professional, with a focus on education and enjoyment.

For around $81.28 per person, you gain access to a curated selection of nearly 40 wines available for tasting by the glass, including vintage bottles dating back to 1858. The shop also allows for purchasing wines directly, which is perfect if you’d like to bring home a piece of Burgundy or have wines shipped internationally. This aspect makes it not just an experience, but a chance to continuously explore Burgundy at home.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The core of this experience is a 1 hour 45-minute private tasting led by a sommelier with over 35 years of experience. The session is highly customizable, with commentary offered in English or French depending on your preference. This personal touch helps demystify Burgundy’s wine classifications and regional distinctions.

You’ll start by settling into a comfortable setting where your sommelier, Alexandre or Thierry, introduces you to Burgundy’s main appellations and the importance of terroirs. The highlight is the tasting of seven carefully selected wines—primarily Premier Cru and Grand Cru. Of these, there are three white wines and four reds from different producers, giving a broad view of the region’s diversity.

The wines have been picked for their qualities and stories, often from top appellations, which means you’re tasting wines that typically cost much more in retail or restaurants. As one reviewer noted, the host Alex was “incredibly knowledgeable and personable,” making the experience both educational and fun, whether you’re a beginner or seasoned wine lover.

Why the Wines Are Special

Reviewers consistently praise the quality and variety of wines sampled. Many mention that the pours are generous enough to truly taste the wines, not just sniff and swirl, making each sip an opportunity to evaluate nuances in flavor, aroma, and texture. The selection includes Grand Cru wines that would normally be inaccessible to many, but here, they are presented in a relaxed setting perfect for learning and appreciation.

Plus, the tasting’s small group format ensures a quiet, unrushed environment where questions are encouraged. Several visitors remarked how the host Alex adapted the session to their knowledge levels, making it a very approachable experience for beginners while still providing valuable insights for more advanced wine lovers.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many reviews highlight the expertise of the guides. For example, “Alex was a great communicator and very knowledgeable about the Burgundy region,” and “Alex’s relaxed personality made the tasting both informative and fun.” Such comments underscore how much the guides’ passion and professionalism enhance the experience.

Some reviewers appreciated the storytelling aspect—learning about the soil types, vineyard histories, and winemaking techniques—which adds depth to the tasting. One guest noted, “We learned quite a bit about the soils and locations in Burgundy,” making this more than just a drinking session.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

• Expert-led, private experience tailored to your interests and knowledge level.
• Selection of top-tier wines, including Grand Cru, from multiple producers, broadening your understanding of Burgundy’s diversity.
• Opportunity to purchase wines directly, with worldwide shipping options.
• The relaxed, friendly atmosphere created by guides like Alex and Thierry, who are passionate about sharing their knowledge.
• The location outside of the main downtown area, offering a peaceful setting dedicated solely to wine appreciation.

Practical Details

The activity lasts approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, perfect for those who want an in-depth yet manageable experience. Meeting at Millésimes à la Carte in Beaune, the tour is private, meaning only your group participates—ideal for couples, friends, or small groups wanting an exclusive experience.

Booking is recommended about 26 days in advance—a sign of its popularity—and the tour is accessible via public transportation and free parking nearby. The flexibility of French or English commentary allows for an even more personalized experience.

The Value of This Experience

While at first glance, the price might seem steep compared to casual tastings, many reviewers agree it’s excellent value considering the quality of wines and level of expertise. The chance to taste rare, top-tier wines in a private setting, with the possibility to ask questions freely and buy wines for home, adds to its appeal.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Burgundy through a curated, intimate session. It’s also suitable for beginners willing to ask questions and absorb knowledge in a friendly environment. If you’re looking for a special, personalized activity that combines education with tasting high-end wines, this tour fits the bill. It’s less suitable for those wanting a quick overview or a large-group social event.

The Sum Up

This private Burgundy wine tasting in Beaune offers a highly personalized, educational, and delicious experience. With guides like Alex bringing years of expertise and a carefully selected range of wines, it provides a rare chance to truly understand the nuances of Burgundy’s best wines without the crowds or pressure of a larger tour. The quality of wines, expert commentary, and relaxed setting make it a top choice for anyone serious about wine or simply looking for a memorable experience in this iconic region.

The tour’s value for money shines through in the opportunity to learn from seasoned professionals, taste Grand Cru wines, and purchase bottles to take home or ship worldwide. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious beginner, the personalized approach ensures you’ll walk away with new insights, a greater appreciation for Burgundy wines, and hopefully, a few bottles to cherish.

FAQs

Is this tour private or group-based?
It is a private experience, meaning only your group participates, allowing for personalized interaction.

How long does the tasting last?
The tasting lasts approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, providing enough time to explore the wines and ask questions.

Are the wines available for purchase?
Yes, all wines tasted are available for sale, with options for worldwide shipping.

Can I choose my language for the commentary?
Yes, commentary is offered in either French or English, tailored to your preference.

What wines will I taste?
You will sample seven wines, including three whites and four reds from top Burgundy appellations, carefully selected for their quality and stories.

Is the experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, many reviews mention that guides tailor the experience to your knowledge level, making it accessible for newcomers.

Where does the activity start?
It begins at Millésimes à la Carte, located at 1 Rue du Moulin Noizé in Beaune.

What about parking and transportation?
Free parking is available nearby, and the location is accessible via public transportation.

What’s the typical booking window?
Most bookings are made around 26 days in advance, highlighting its popularity.

Can I customize the experience?
While the selection is curated, the guides are flexible and willing to answer questions or focus on topics of your interest.

This private Burgundy wine tasting offers a genuine and enriching journey into one of France’s most famous wine regions. Perfect for those who appreciate quality, personalized attention, and the chance to broaden their wine knowledge in a relaxed, welcoming setting.