In the valleys and slopes just west of the Saône, swathes of green vines consistently produce what are considered to be some of the world’s best wines.
Walking Burgundy
In the valleys and slopes just west of the Saône, swathes of green vines consistently produce what are considered to be some of the world’s best wines. Whilst they may be small in stature, Burgundy’s five wine-growing areas are big players in global trade, with their prestige, quality and small-scale production leading to an impressive level of demand. Burgundy is one of the most globally renowned and beloved regions – and with good reason. Join us on a comprehensive introduction to the grapes that really live up to their reputation.
Yes, wine is obviously one of the key pillars of Burgundian culture, but this region isn’t without its fair share of history, architecture and heritage. Religion also plays a big part in the overall feel of this area, as we can tell by standing before Cluny or Cistercian institutions, such as Cîteaux Abbey, many of which are over 1,000 years old.
In true French style, the food in Burgundy – as with the wine – is made to be enjoyed in good company. Enjoy classics like Coq au vin, Oeufs en meurette and escargots, but leave room for delicious regional cheeses that include époisses, soumaintrain and the often forgotten (but no less fantastic) Pierre qui Vire.
Explore the many expressions of Pinot Noir – classic, rustic and muscular, or delicate and ethereal – there is a red Burgundy for everyone. Burgundy isn’t complete without Gamay dominated Beaujolais, flinty Chablis and rich, buttery Meursault. Whatever your taste, Burgundy is made to be enjoyed in the place it was grown.
Itinerary
Day 1 - London to Lyon
After our flight from London to Lyon, we will drive to our hotel in the heart of the gorgeous Burgundy vineyards.
Day 2 - Lyon
Our day begins with a walk from our hotel to an estate for our first wine-tasting and tour. Later, we find a picturesque spot for a picnic lunch, accompanied by further sumptuous Burgundy wines. Continuing our walk through the vineyards this afternoon, we visit another estate for a tasting and further discussion on wines. We return to our hotel later on for some free time before a group dinner at Au Clos Napoléon.
Day 3 - Meursault
This morning, we head to Château du Clos de Vougeot to visit the castle. Formerly the medieval winery of the nearby monastery of Cîteaux, vats and magnificent old presses can still be seen here, with it’s history and beauty holding a lot of significance in this region. This afternoon we will be visiting Domaine Louis Max. The house was originally founded in Nuits St Georges by Evgueni Louis Max in 1859 and today their vineyards cover a large range from regional appellations to grand crus from the entire Burgundy region from Chablis in the north to Macon in the South.
Day 4 - Meursault
Strolling through the vineyards of Meursault this morning, we enjoy another tasting before a picnic lunch in a scenic spot. Walking further through the beautiful countryside, we find ourselves in Puligny-Montrachet where our next winemaker, Domaine Chartron, awaits us. This firm covers 13 hectares of vineyards in Puligny-Montrachet and the neighbouring villages, the majority of which are Premiers and Grands Crus. The estate was founded in 1859 and is now overseen by the 5th generation of the same family that originally established the domaine. There will be free time available in the evening for us to do with as we wish.
Day 5 - Beaune
We begin today exploring the beautiful, picture-perfect town of Beaune at a relaxed pace. With our first winery visit of the day not taking place until this afternoon, there is time to discover the town’s local gastronomy, charming streets, shops and culture. The town is full of art and is surrounded by old ramparts, housing museums in striking 14th century buildings. This evening, we come together for a farewell dinner and reflect on the week.
Day 6 - Lyon to London
After breakfast this morning, we leave Beaune and head back to Lyon airport for our lunchtime flight back to the UK.
Guides
Matthew Boucher has worked in the wine trade for more than 20 years, and arranges tastings for groups and companies. He is an Associate Tutor with Cambridge Wine School and holds the WSET Diploma in Wine & Spirits. Matthew is a fluent French and German speaker.
Matthew Boucher
Wine Guide
Return flights from London to Lyon*
*For UK bookings only
Hotel La Vougeot, Lyon
3* hotel in the village of Meursault
Hotel de la Poste, Beaune
All breakfasts, 4 lunches and 3 dinners with wine
Visits and tastings as per the itinerary
