The Candle & Wine Pairing Workshop

Imagine a 1.5-hour session where you can combine your love of local wines with the art of candle-making, all set in a sunlit Marseille apartment with stunning landmark views. That’s exactly what the Candle & Wine Pairing Workshop offers—a creative, sensory experience that’s as authentic as it is enjoyable. Led by Simone, a candle maker with over a decade of experience, and Guillaume, a master of wine, this workshop promises a one-of-a-kind exploration of fragrance and flavor.

What really makes this experience stand out is the chance to craft your own sustainable candle using premium ingredients sourced from Grasse—the perfume capital of the world—and pair it with some of the best local wines. The intimate setting, limited to just six participants, ensures a relaxed vibe and plenty of personalized attention. But, as with all experiences, there are a few considerations to keep in mind, like the building’s stairs, which might not suit everyone.

If you’re someone who loves discovering new ways to enjoy the South of France’s rich sensory offerings, this workshop is a perfect fit. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a candle lover, or simply looking for a memorable activity that’s different from the usual sightseeing, this experience offers genuine value and authentic charm.

Key Points

• Unique pairing of wine and candle-making creates an immersive sensory experience.
• Hand-on activity allows you to craft your own candle with fragrances from Grasse.
• Stunning views from the apartment enhance the relaxed, authentic atmosphere.
• Carefully sourced ingredients ensure high quality and eco-friendliness.
• Small group size fosters personalized guidance and relaxed interaction.
• Flexible booking options allow you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund.

What to Expect from the Candle & Wine Pairing Workshop

This experience is designed to combine the pleasure of local French wines with the art of candle-making, all within the charming confines of a Marseille apartment in Longchamp. The hosts, Simone and Guillaume, have crafted an engaging program that balances education, creativity, and enjoyment.

The Location & Atmosphere

You’ll gather in a bright, airy apartment overlooking the Palais in Marseille, with views of La Bonne Mère and, if the timing’s right, one of the city’s famous sunsets. The setting immediately feels authentic and inviting, with a vibe that encourages good conversation and a laid-back approach to learning.

The Guiding Principles

Simone’s background as a candle maker for over 12 years shines through. She guides participants through the process of creating a sustainable candle, emphasizing eco-friendly ingredients like French rapeseed wax and organic cotton wicks. The fragrances come from Grasse, the renowned perfume hub, which means you’re working with some of the finest scent oils available. Guillaume complements this by selecting local wines to match each seasonal scent, aiming to enhance the sensory experience.

The Candle-Making Process

Participants learn about the complex structure of candles—comparing it to wine with its top, heart, and base notes. You’ll select from a range of fragrances inspired by the South of France, blending them into your own personalized candle. Simone provides all necessary tools, including 24cl glass jars, recycled paper labels, and high-quality wax and wicks.

The process is hands-on but relaxed, and you’ll leave with a hand-poured candle that’s a tangible souvenir of your Marseille visit. Several reviews noted how satisfying it is to see your creation take shape, with one guest mentioning, “It’s a fun, creative way to take a piece of Marseille home.”

The Wine Tasting

While making your candle, you’ll be sampling up to three glasses of local wines, carefully selected to pair with the fragrances you’re working with. Guillaume’s expertise ensures each sip complements the scents and enhances the overall experience. Guests have appreciated the quality and variety of the wines, with one mentioning, “The wines were excellent, and I loved how they were matched to the fragrances—something you don’t find in typical wine tastings.”

The Overall Experience

Expect a mix of relaxation, discovery, and conversation. The small group setting means plenty of chances to ask questions and learn about both candle-making and the wines of the South of France. The setting naturally encourages a friendly, unhurried pace, and many find it’s a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

The Value of the Experience

At $76 per person, the workshop offers surprising value considering what’s included—tools, eco-friendly ingredients, fragrances from Grasse, a personalized candle, and multiple glasses of wine. You’re not just paying for a craft activity but for a memorable, immersive experience that combines taste, scent, and sight.

Many reviews highlighted the quality of the materials—“Everything was carefully sourced and eco-friendly,” one guest noted—adding a layer of meaning for those conscious about sustainability. The fact that you get to take home a unique, handcrafted candle makes it even more worthwhile.

Accessibility & Practicalities

Because the workshop takes place in a century-old building without lift access, it may not suit everyone with mobility issues. It’s worth noting that the stairs could be a barrier for some, and the experience is geared towards adults over 18. The session is conducted in English, and the small group size ensures individual attention.

Flexibility & Booking

With the option to reserve now and pay later, and unrestricted cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, planning around this activity is straightforward. The limited group size (up to 6 participants) promises a more intimate experience, which many reviewers found to be one of its highlights.

Deep Dive into the Details

Itinerary Breakdown

The workshop begins with a brief introduction to candle-making and the science behind fragrance notes. Simone explains how candles and wines are similar—both built on top, heart, and base notes—and guides you through choosing scents inspired by the South of France.

Next, you’ll pour your own natural French rapeseed wax into a glass jar, adding your selected fragrances. Guillaume offers insights into how wine can enhance or complement these scents, making the pairing both educational and pleasurable.

Throughout, you’ll be encouraged to ask questions and discuss the aromas and flavors, creating a lively, engaging atmosphere. The final step involves labeling and setting your candle—an easy process that leaves you with a tangible souvenir.

The Highlights

• Scents from Grasse: You’ll work with authentic fragrances, not synthetic oils, which adds depth and genuine French flair to your candle.
• Local wines: Guests appreciated the range of wines, often mentioning how well they paired with the fragrances.
• The views: The apartment’s vantage point offers iconic sights like La Bonne Mère and Marseille’s rooftops, enriching the sensory journey.
• Personalized touches: You craft your own candle, making it a unique keepsake.

Guest Perspectives & Tips

Guests have praised the relaxed atmosphere, calling the hosts “friendly” and “knowledgeable.” One review mentioned that the workshop felt “like a proper French experience,” emphasizing the authenticity.

A practical tip is to wear comfortable shoes for the stairs and arrive with an open mind. Participants also recommend arriving a bit early to soak in the views and settle in before starting.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This workshop is perfect for those seeking a creative, sensory activity that’s off the typical tourist trail. It’s especially suited for wine lovers, fragrance enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a tangible souvenir crafted with care. The small group setting suits travelers who enjoy personalized attention and a relaxed pace.

It may also appeal to couples, friends, or solo travelers looking to connect over a shared interest in France’s arts and flavours. Given the focus on eco-friendly ingredients and authentic fragrances, it’s also a nice choice for environmentally conscious visitors.

The Sum Up

The Candle & Wine Pairing Workshop in Marseille offers a delightful blend of craftsmanship, local flavors, and stunning scenery. For just $76, you get to create a personalized candle—your own fragrant souvenir—while sampling some of the best regional wines. The small-group format ensures a friendly, intimate environment that encourages learning and conversation.

This experience is ideal for travelers who value authenticity and want to indulge their senses in a meaningful way. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, a candle lover, or simply curious about French scents and flavors, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. The views, the quality ingredients, and the genuine hospitality combine to make it a memorable highlight of any Marseille trip.

If you’re after a relaxed, creative activity that combines local culture with a touch of luxury, this workshop is hard to beat.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
All tools and materials to make your own sustainable candle, including natural French rapeseed wax, organic cotton wick, fragrances from Grasse, a glass jar, lid, label, and up to three glasses of local wine.

How long does the workshop last?
It lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a compact but satisfying experience that fits well into most travel plans.

Is the experience suitable for children?
No, it’s designed for adults over 18 and might not be suitable for children under that age.

Are there any accessibility issues?
Yes, the venue is in a 100-year-old building without lift access, so stairs could be a challenge for some.

What language is the workshop conducted in?
It is taught in English, ensuring clear communication for English-speaking travelers.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes, considering the stairs and the relaxed workshop setting.

Are the ingredients eco-friendly?
Yes, everything used is carefully sourced, eco-friendly, and includes natural French wax and fragrances.

Will I leave with a finished candle?
Absolutely, you’ll pour and label your own candle during the session to take home as a keepsake.

Is this experience a good value?
Given the high-quality ingredients, expert guidance, and the unique combination of wine and scent, many find the price justified and worthwhile.

This hands-on, sensory workshop in Marseille combines artistic creation with regional flavors, making for an authentic and memorable experience in the South of France.