Blind Tasting: 4 Bordeaux Natural Wine + Cheese experience

Getting a taste of Bordeaux’s renowned wine scene without the fuss and formalities can be tricky—that’s where this blind tasting experience shines. It’s a chance to really get to know the region’s unique approach to wine, paired seamlessly with local cheeses and charcuterie, all wrapped in a convivial, relaxed atmosphere.

We love that this tour offers educational insights from a knowledgeable sommelier, a chance to explore Bordeaux’s diverse wine regions, and a friendly environment that makes learning about wine fun rather than intimidating. Plus, at just $31, it’s pretty incredible value for a one-hour session of tasting, chatting, and munching.

The only thing to consider? If you’re after a deep dive into Bordeaux’s wine history or a large-scale tasting, this might feel a bit too brief or casual for your tastes. Otherwise, it’s perfect for curious travelers eager to learn the basics and enjoy some delicious local products without breaking the bank.

This experience is ideal for wine newbies, food lovers, or anyone curious about Bordeaux’s natural wine scene. It’s also great if you’re looking for a relaxed activity that combines education with a tasty bite.

Good To Know

• Authentic Bordeaux wines: Tasting 4 different wines from various Bordeaux regions, all organic and from small family chateaux.
• Educational and fun: The sommelier shares stories of winemakers, vintage info, and how to read French wine labels.
• Food pairing: Enjoy a thoughtfully curated cheese platter and charcuterie, enhancing the wine experience.
• Blind tasting thrill: Discover how to evaluate wines without preconceived notions, guided by a professional.
• Value for money: At $31 per person, including the wine, cheeses, and expert talks, it’s an accessible way to deepen your wine knowledge.
• Accessible and friendly: The tour is suitable for all, with wheelchair accessibility and guides speaking both French and English.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from the Bordeaux Natural Wine Tasting

This one-hour experience is designed to be both educational and enjoyable, offering a glimpse into the world of Bordeaux’s natural wines and the stories behind them. Here’s a detailed look at what unfolds:

Meeting Point & Atmosphere

You’ll find your group in front of the Famous Saint Michel Church, a lively spot in Bordeaux’s historic area. The atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed—no stuffy wine snobbery here. Reviews mention a “fantastic, calm, and relaxed atmosphere,” where guests feel comfortable asking questions and engaging.

The Guide & Learning Experience

Your guide, a friendly sommelier, leads the tasting, sharing insights about Bordeaux’s wine regions, grape varieties, and the significance of the 1855 classification. They also explain how Bordeaux’s climate and terroirs influence the flavors you’ll sample.

A highlight is the blind tasting of four wines: one white, two reds, and one sweet wine. The guide explains the fun behind blind tasting—no bias about labels or price tags—allowing you to focus on aromas, textures, and flavors.

The Wines & Their Stories

The wines are all organic and made by small family chateaux, emphasizing Bordeaux’s move toward sustainable practices. Multiple reviews point out the “excellent wine selection” and how the guide’s storytelling enhances appreciation.

Guests learn how to read French wine labels and understand what makes Bordeaux wines unique. One reviewer noted that the experience “revealed all the secrets of Bordeaux wine,” making it ideal for those wanting a foundation in wine knowledge.

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Food & Cheese Pairings

The platter includes three types of cheeses and two different dry meats, carefully selected to complement the wines. Reviewers often mention the “delicious cheese and cold cuts” and how they elevate the tasting.

The guide also shares tips on food pairing, helping you understand what makes certain cheeses and meats a perfect match for Bordeaux’s wines. The cheese quality is praised for being local and fresh, adding authenticity to the experience.

The Educational Content

Beyond tasting, you’ll learn about why wine hangovers aren’t due to sulphur, with the guide pointing out more sulphur is in fruits and vegetables than in wine, which is a common misconception.

The session concludes with tips on reading wine labels like a pro, a skill that’s useful whether you’re shopping in Bordeaux or back home. The guide also discusses how to pair food and Bordeaux wine, offering practical advice for future meals.

The Real Value of This Experience

At $31, this tour offers more than just tasting—it’s a mini-course in Bordeaux wines and their regional nuances. The inclusion of 4 wines, cheese, charcuterie, a knowledgeable guide, and a fun atmosphere makes it a compelling deal.

Compared to larger, more formal tastings or visits to wineries, this experience delivers personalized insights in an accessible way. Reviews highlight “good value for money” and praise the “warm welcome and engaging guide”, making it a memorable highlight of any Bordeaux trip.

Group Size & Duration

The one-hour duration keeps it brief yet satisfying, perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing day. The group sizes are typically small, fostering interaction and personalized attention.

Accessibility & Convenience

Being wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers. It’s located conveniently in the city center, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing plans.

What Travelers Loved (and Less)

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable, friendly guides who make complex topics approachable. The wines are described as “really good”, and the food platter as “good value”.

However, some noted that the guide’s English wasn’t perfect or that the cheese and meats weren’t extensively explained, but these are minor points compared to the overall positive feedback.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for beginners curious about Bordeaux wine or anyone wanting a relaxed, educational activity. It’s also well-suited for food lovers, as the pairing enhances the tasting.

If you’re after a quick, enjoyable introduction to Bordeaux’s natural wines, with a friendly guide and local flavors, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially beneficial if you’re looking for good value and a small-group experience.

Not ideal for those seeking a deep dive into Bordeaux wine history or a large, elaborate tasting event. Pregnant women and under-18s are also advised to skip, given the alcohol content.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with allergies?
Yes, travelers are encouraged to mention any allergies beforehand so accommodations or substitutions can be considered.

How long does the tour last?
The activity runs for approximately 1 hour, making it easy to slot into a busy day of sightseeing.

Are the wines served during the tasting organic?
Yes, all wines are 100% local, organic, and produced by small family chateaux, emphasizing sustainable practices.

Can I buy additional wine or food during the tour?
Extra glasses of wine or food are not included, and there’s no mention of purchase options, so it’s best to enjoy what’s provided.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for most visitors.

Do I need to speak French to enjoy this tour?
No, guides speak both French and English, ensuring clear communication for international guests.

Final Thoughts

This blind Bordeaux wine and cheese experience offers an engaging, approachable way to explore the region’s unique approach to natural wine. With expert guides, authentic local products, and a friendly atmosphere, it’s a delightful activity for those wanting to learn, taste, and enjoy without any pretension.

The value for money is hard to beat, especially considering the quality of wines and cheeses, plus the educational insights that can elevate your future wine adventures. Whether you’re a wine novice or just want a relaxed, fun way to appreciate Bordeaux’s terroirs, this tour has a lot to offer.

It’s best suited for curious travelers, small groups, and anyone looking for a taste of local flavors in a casual setting. If you’re after a memorable, well-rounded introduction to Bordeaux wine, this activity hits the right notes.

In summary, this tour combines affordability, authenticity, and friendliness—making it a worthwhile addition to your Bordeaux itinerary. Just bring your curiosity and a smile, and prepare to discover the region’s natural wines in a new and enjoyable way.

You can check if your dates are available here: