Visit of our 15th century cellars

Uncover the Charm of Beaune’s 15th Century Cellars with Maison Champy

If you’re visiting Beaune and have a keen interest in wine, a tour of Maison Champy’s historic cellars offers a genuine glimpse into Burgundy’s storied wine-making tradition. This nearly 300-year-old estate, founded in 1720, not only boasts beautifully preserved 15th-century cellars but also offers an intimate tasting of five emblematic wines, including some with Premier Cru and Grand Cru designations. For those curious about Burgundy’s renowned terroirs and wanting a taste of history, this tour ticks many boxes.

What we particularly love about this experience is the personal touch—small group sizes (max 8 people) mean a more relaxed, informative atmosphere, and the guides are clearly passionate and knowledgeable. The setting itself, with cellars listed as Historic Monuments, immerses you in the past while tasting wines grown on organic vineyards adds an authentic, environmentally conscious layer to the experience. The only potential drawback? Visiting times are fixed, so punctuality is important if you don’t want to miss out.

This tour is especially suited for wine lovers, history enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a deeper understanding of Burgundy’s wine culture. It’s perfect for those looking for a manageable, authentic experience in Beaune that combines history, education, and tasting in one compact package.

Key Points

• Historic Setting: Experience 15th-century cellars listed as Historic Monuments.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides, such as Cryiane and Mathias, enhance the learning and tasting.
• Quality Tasting: Five wines, including one Premier Cru and one Grand Cru, showcasing Burgundy’s best.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 travelers for a personalized experience.
• Value for Money: At around $28.66, it offers a rich insight into Burgundy wine for a reasonable price.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point: Maison Champy in Beaune’s Heart

Your journey begins at Maison Champy, a cornerstone of Burgundy’s wine scene. This estate, with roots stretching back to the early 18th century, is a living museum of Burgundy wine history. The building itself, inspired by the Eiffel School and listed as a Historic Monument, immediately sets a tone of elegance and tradition. The estate’s ownership of 21 hectares of vineyards, many farmed organically, speaks to their commitment to quality and sustainability.

The Cellars: Walking Through 15th-Century History

Once inside, the highlight is exploring the cellars dating back to the 15th century. These underground spaces, with their ancient brickwork and cool, damp atmosphere, offer a rare chance to see the age-old infrastructure where wine was stored and matured centuries ago. The fact that they are officially recognized as historic sites adds a layer of cultural importance to the visit.

Guided Tour: Knowledgeable and Personable

Guides like Cryiane and Mathias receive high praise from previous visitors. One reviewer notes Cryiane’s perfect English explanations and her engaging storytelling about Maison Champy’s history and Burgundy’s wine differences. Mathias’s helpful and patient demeanor also shines through, especially with last-minute bookings. Their passion elevates the experience, making complex topics accessible whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned enthusiast.

Tasting: Five Wines with a Focus on Terroir and Prestige

The main event is sampling five wines that represent both Burgundy’s terroir and prestige classifications. The tasting includes wines from the estate’s organic vineyards, emphasizing the role of terroir in flavor profiles. Wines are divided into two categories:

• Terroir: Includes one Premier Cru wine, allowing you to appreciate Burgundy’s nuanced classification system.
• Prestige: Features a Grand Cru, showcasing the estate’s top-tier offerings.

While tastings may occasionally vary due to wine availability, the selection strives to give a broad taste of Burgundy’s best. Previous guests have praised the quality of explanations and the wines themselves, describing the experience as “divine” and “exceptional.”

Additional Details: What to Expect

The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, balancing historical insights with ample tasting time. It’s a small, intimate group, ensuring plenty of interaction with the guide. Visitors should arrive promptly—if more than 15 minutes late, Maison Champy reserves the right to refuse entry, so plan to arrive early and soak in the surroundings.

Legal age for tastings is 18+, and no animals are allowed, aligning with typical winery policies. The experience is available with a mobile ticket, making it easy to access and manage your booking.

Pricing and Value

At about $28.66 per person, this tour offers great value, blending history, education, and tasting in a manageable timeframe. Considering the quality, the personal attention, and the historic setting, it’s a solid investment for anyone wanting an authentic Burgundy experience without breaking the bank.

Booking and Cancellation

Flexibility is a bonus—free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience allows you to plan without stress. The moderate group size, combined with the fixed timing, makes this a well-organized, hassle-free activity.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Burgundy’s unique classifications and the importance of terroir. It’s also perfect for history buffs interested in exploring historic cellars, or first-time visitors wanting a guided, personalized introduction to Burgundy wines. Its small-group format makes it suitable for couples, friends, or solo travelers seeking a relaxed, engaging activity.

If you prefer larger, more commercial tastings or want to visit multiple wineries in a day, this might feel a bit intimate. However, if you value depth, storytelling, and a well-curated tasting, Maison Champy’s tour will meet your expectations.

Final Thoughts

A visit to Maison Champy’s 15th-century cellars offers a rare glimpse of Burgundy’s past while providing a delicious tasting of its finest wines. The knowledgeable guides and historic setting make this experience stand out among many wine tours in the region. It’s a perfect blend of education, culture, and flavor—delivered in a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

At under $30, it’s a value-packed activity that will deepen your appreciation for Burgundy’s wine-making artistry. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a curious traveler dipping your toes into wine culture, this tour offers authentic insights and memorable moments in Beaune.

For those seeking a meaningful, educational, and delicious experience in Burgundy, this tour is hard to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
No, the tasting is only for guests 18 and older. Children and non-drinkers can still enjoy the guided tour of the historic cellars, but the tasting experience is restricted to adults.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 1 hour 30 minutes, providing enough time to explore the cellars, learn from the guide, and enjoy five tastings.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee covers the guided visit, entry to the historic cellars, and tasting of five wines, including at least one Premier Cru and one Grand Cru.

Can I cancel my booking if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancelations made within 24 hours are non-refundable.

How many people are in each group?
Group sizes are limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

Are the wines organic?
Yes, a significant part of Maison Champy’s vineyards are cultivated using Organic Farming methods, emphasizing sustainability and terroir preservation.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable attire is recommended, and arriving on time is crucial. Bring a sense of curiosity and your favorite camera to capture the historic surroundings.

Whether you’re looking for an educational wine adventure, a taste of Burgundy’s history, or simply a memorable activity in Beaune, this tour from Maison Champy offers a well-rounded, authentic experience that’s worth every penny.