Bordeaux: Half-Day Private Natural Wine Tour & Tasting

Exploring Bordeaux’s wine world doesn’t always mean sticking to the well-trodden paths of grand châteaux and traditional reds. This half-day private natural wine tour offers a refreshing alternative—focusing on the innovative and authentic side of winemaking. It’s perfect for those curious about unconventional wines, sustainability, and hands-on experiences.

What makes this tour special? First, you get to sample at least 6 natural wines including orange and Pet Nat styles, which you might not find in regular vineyards. Second, the tour provides a clear explanation of the key differences between natural, organic, and conventional wines, helping you become a smarter wine enthusiast. Third, it’s an interactive experience—meeting farm animals like chickens, ducks, and geese, and exploring the vineyard with a knowledgeable guide.

One possible consideration? The tour is quite short—only 1.5 hours—so it’s more of a tasting and insight session than an in-depth vineyard visit. It’s best suited for those with a keen interest in natural wines, small-group experiences, or travelers looking for a relaxed, offbeat activity.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or simply curious about the natural winemaking movement, this experience offers a genuine peek into Bordeaux’s evolving wine scene.

Good To Know

• Authentic Natural Wines: Sample 6+ drinks, including sparkling rosé (Pet Nat) and orange wines.
• Educational Element: Understand the differences between natural, organic, and conventional wines.
• Personalized Experience: Private group with a live guide, available in English and Russian.
• Vineyard & Farm Life: Tour organic vineyards and meet playful chickens, ducks, and geese.
• Low-Intervention Philosophy: Emphasis on minimal additives and natural fermentation.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, with a pay-later option.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting Point and General Structure

The tour begins at 37 Chem. du Caderot, a location that’s conveniently close to Bordeaux city (just 25 minutes away along the Dordogne River). From the start, you’re greeted with welcome refreshments—a nice touch to settle in and set your expectations.

Guided Vineyard Tour & Farm Visit

The highlight is the guided tour around the vineyard and winery, where the guide explains the core principles of natural winemaking. We’ll walk through organic vineyards, learning how sustainable practices influence flavor and terroir. Expect to hear about the low-intervention approach, which relies on nature rather than additives, and how this impacts the final taste.

Beyond the vines, you’ll get to see the experimental fermentation station, where unconventional methods are often tried. One reviewer appreciated the transparency, noting how the guide’s passion shines through as they explain their philosophy. A guest mentioned, “We loved how relaxed and genuine the staff was, really sharing their love for natural wines.”

Tasting Experience

The tasting is designed to showcase the diversity of natural wines. You’ll try at least 6 different styles, including:

• Orange wines—white wines with extended skin contact, offering a tannic structure and vibrant flavors.
• Pet Nat (Pétillant Naturel)—a sparkling rosé that’s naturally fermented in the bottle.
• Claret, a modern Bordeaux red that reflects the wine’s contemporary twist.

Guests often describe the wines as unfiltered, lively, and expressive. One reviewer noted, “It felt like tasting wines made with love and without shortcuts.” The wines are curated to highlight the winemaker’s commitment to authenticity, often with minimal sulfur and additives.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Additional Experiences

The tour isn’t just about wines. You’ll meet the farm animals, which adds a fun, relaxed vibe to the visit. Chickens, ducks, and geese roam freely, and guests find it entertaining to see how the farm complements the natural wine philosophy.

You’ll also have free time after the tasting, allowing you to ask questions or simply enjoy the peaceful vineyard surroundings. The guide’s insights help you understand how natural wines fit into the broader Bordeaux landscape—where traditional reds still dominate but a new wave is on the rise.

The Experience Provider: Chateau Shuette

Chateau Shuette specializes in low-intervention, sustainable winemaking, making it a perfect choice for travelers wanting an authentic look at Bordeaux’s natural wine movement. The staff is praised for their friendliness and passion, often engaging guests with stories about their methods and challenges.

Analyzing the Value and Practical Details

At $53 per person, this tour is quite affordable considering the intimate setting, personalized attention, and rare sampling of natural wines that are hard to find elsewhere in Bordeaux. It is especially valuable for those looking to expand their wine knowledge beyond standard tours, with a focus on authenticity and sustainability.

The duration of 1.5 hours strikes a good balance—enough time to enjoy the wines and tour without feeling rushed. Since private groups are available, you can expect a more tailored experience, which reviewers say allows for better engagement and questions.

Note that private transportation isn’t included, so plan accordingly if you’re coming from Bordeaux city. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a flexible choice for many visitors.

Why This Tour Works Well

If you’re interested in natural wines, sustainable farming, or just want a different perspective on Bordeaux’s wines, this experience hits the mark. It’s also perfect for small groups seeking an authentic, hands-on activity with knowledgeable guides.

For those who enjoy meeting animals and exploring the farm environment, the farm animal encounters add a charming, memorable touch. It’s a chance to see how a low-intervention philosophy extends beyond winemaking into a broader lifestyle.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers wanting a more genuine, less commercialized look at Bordeaux’s emerging natural wine scene. It suits those with curiosity about sustainable practices and interest in tasting unique wines that aren’t mass-produced.

It’s also perfect if you prefer an informal, interactive atmosphere over traditional châteaux visits. Because of its short duration, it’s a great fit for those with tight schedules or as a complement to other Bordeaux activities.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children? No, it’s designed for adults over 18 due to alcohol tasting.
Are private transport options included? No, transportation is not included, so plan to arrange your own.
Can I cancel my booking? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.
What languages are available? Tours are conducted in English and Russian.
Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues? Yes, it’s wheelchair accessible.
How long does the tour last? Approximately 1.5 hours, including the vineyard walk and tasting.
What wines will I taste? Expect to sample 6+ natural styles, including orange wines, Pet Nat, and Claret.

Final Thoughts

This Bordeaux natural wine tour offers a refreshing take on the region’s wine scene. It combines educational insights, authentic flavors, and a relaxed farm atmosphere. It’s a fantastic choice for those eager to explore something different from the typical Bordeaux experience—especially if you’re drawn to sustainable practices and unconventional wines.

While it’s a brief experience, the depth of insight and quality of wines make it well worth the price. The small-group setting ensures personalized attention, making it perfect for curious wine enthusiasts and eco-conscious travelers alike.

If you’re looking for a fun, honest, and flavorful introduction to Bordeaux’s natural wine wave, this tour is a great pick—an enjoyable, memorable way to taste the region’s innovative side.

You can check if your dates are available here: