Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Classé: Picnic & Visit in English

Planning a wine experience in the Bordeaux region? This Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé tour promises a combination of immersive vineyard visits, tastings of top-tier wines, and a relaxing picnic amid stunning scenery. While it’s not overly long at just around two hours, its focus on quality and authenticity makes it appealing.

We love how this tour balances tradition with modernity, giving you a peek into both classic and contemporary winemaking styles. The opportunity to taste three excellent wines from renowned estates is a real highlight, as is the chance to enjoy a delicious picnic with locally sourced products. An extra perk: the spectacular views of the vineyards that serve as a beautiful backdrop for your lunch.

One possible concern? The group size is limited to ten, which is great for intimacy but might feel a bit crowded during busy periods. Also, some guests might wish for more in-depth cellar tours or additional wine tastings—consider this an experience for those seeking a relaxed, scenic overview rather than a deep dive into Bordeaux’s winemaking secrets.

This experience suits anyone wanting a taste of Saint-Émilion’s elegance without an overly long commitment, especially if they enjoy combining wine, scenery, and good food. Perfect for casual wine lovers, couples, or small groups eager to explore with some picturesque downtime.

Good To Know

• Authentic vineyard visits at two distinct estates showcase both traditional and modern approaches.
• Tasting of three wines offers a genuine introduction to the region’s top selections.
• Scenic picnic with local products provides a relaxed meal amid stunning vineyard views.
• Small group size ensures a more personal experience.
• Price point around $57 makes this experience quite affordable considering the inclusions.
• Limited duration keeps it manageable but may not suit those seeking an extensive tour.

A Deep Dive into the Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé Experience

A Perfect Blend of Tradition and Innovation

This tour centers on two prestigious Château properties owned by the De Schepper family — Château Tour Baladoz and Château La Croizille. Each offers a different perspective on winemaking: one retains classic, traditional methods, while the other showcases a forward-looking, modern approach.

Château Tour Baladoz boasts an authentic cellar, typical of the region’s winemaking past. Here, visitors can see the equipment and processes used in traditional fermentation and aging, gaining insight into the craftsmanship behind their wines. The guide, likely a knowledgeable staff member, will explain each stage — from vine to bottle — providing context that deepens appreciation, even for casual wine drinkers.

Château La Croizille, by contrast, features a contemporary winery with sleek, modern facilities. Its panoramic view of Saint-Émilion is a highlight, giving you a sweeping vista over the rolling vineyards. Visitors often praise the estate for its stunning scenery, which makes the tasting feel extra special, especially on clear days.

The Guided Tastings

After exploring both estates, attendees will sample three grand wines—a chance to taste distinct expressions from both vineyards. The small group setting (max 10 travelers) allows for personalized attention, and the guide’s explanations help you understand what makes each wine unique.

One reviewer noted, “The wines were very good and offered a true taste of the terroir,” highlighting the quality of the selections. The guided aspect is helpful in recognizing the nuances of the wines, especially if you’re new to Bordeaux tastings.

The Picnic with a View

A standout feature of this experience is the winemaker’s picnic. Think artisan cheeses, cured meats, fresh veggies, fruits, and a freshly baked baguette—paired with a glass of wine of your choice. It’s a generous spread that feels more like a relaxed gathering than a formal meal.

Guests rave about the delicious local products and the chance to enjoy their meal while soaking in the breathtaking vineyard vistas. One review mentions the picnic as “very good,” emphasizing the quality of the food and the setting as memorable highlights.

Practical Details and Value

At $57.47 per person, the price is quite reasonable considering the inclusions. You get two estate visits, three wine tastings, and a luxurious picnic — all within approximately two hours. This makes it a great option for those who want a taste of Saint-Émilion without a full-day commitment or steep price tag.

The meeting point at Château La Croizille’s estate is convenient, and the experience runs from 11:00 am, fitting nicely into a day of exploring the region.

What Travelers Say

While there’s only one published review, it’s positive. The reviewer called it “a very nice place to visit,” appreciating the landscape, good wines, and fair prices. They also enjoyed the picnic, which complemented the tasting experience well.

Other potential travelers should know that most people can participate, and service animals are allowed, making it accessible for many. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, though it might feel a bit crowded during peak times.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those seeking a relaxed, scenic introduction to Saint-Émilion’s wines. It appeals especially to casual wine enthusiasts who want to sample quality wines and enjoy a delicious picnic without the pressure of an extensive, in-depth tour. It’s also suitable for small groups or couples wanting a private, intimate setting with stunning views.

If you’re after an authentic, well-rounded peek into Bordeaux’s wine culture—without the heavy price tag or long hours—this tour offers a lovely balance of education, scenery, and tasting pleasure.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
Approximately 2 hours, including visits, tastings, and the picnic.

What is included in the price?
You’ll visit two châteaux, taste three wines, and enjoy a picnic with artisan cheese, cured meats, fresh veggies, fruit, baguette, and a glass of wine of your choice.

Are dietary requirements accommodated?
Yes, guests should inform the provider in advance of any allergies or special dietary needs so they can tailor the picnic basket.

What wines will I taste?
Three wines from the estates of Château Tour Baladoz and Château La Croizille, encompassing different expressions of Saint-Émilion Grand Cru wines.

Can I purchase additional wines?
Extra wines beyond those included in the tasting and picnic are not included and would need to be bought separately.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Château La Croizille, located in Saint-Laurent-des-Combes, France, and concludes back at the start point.

Is this experience suitable for children or non-drinkers?
While most travelers can participate, the focus is on wine tasting. Non-drinkers can enjoy the scenery and food, but the experience is designed around wine appreciation.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience to get a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé: Picnic & Visit offers a well-rounded, friendly introduction to the region’s celebrated wines combined with stunning vineyard vistas. It’s a flexible, affordable choice for those wanting a taste of Bordeaux’s elegance without the need to commit to an extensive tour.

The combination of authentic estate visits, quality tastings, and a local picnic makes it especially appealing for travelers looking to relax, enjoy good wine, and soak in beautiful scenery. Though it’s not a deep dive into Bordeaux’s entire winemaking history, it’s a delightful snapshot that leaves many guests feeling satisfied and eager to explore more of the region.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy Bordeaux’s charm in a laid-back setting, this tour provides excellent value and memorable moments. Just remember to book in advance, as spots are limited, and prepare to indulge in some of the best the Saint-Émilion vineyards have to offer.