Bordeaux: Wine tasting with a DipWSET, CMS Certified Sommelier

If you’re heading to Bordeaux and looking for a way to truly understand what makes this region’s wines so revered, a wine tasting with a certified CMS sommelier might just be your best bet. This particular experience, offered by Bordeaux: Tours & Wine, promises an engaging, educational session that combines expert guidance with tasting some of Bordeaux’s finest wines.

What sets this tour apart? First, the knowledgeable guide Guadalupe, a DipWSET holder and CMS Certified Sommelier, ensures that every sip is paired with insightful stories and practical tips. Second, the balanced mix of wines and cheeses creates a sensory journey that’s both enjoyable and informative. Lastly, the flexibility to upgrade with premium wines adds a touch of exclusivity for those eager to indulge deeper.

However, a potential thing to keep in mind is that the tour lasts only about 1.5 hours, so it’s a relatively quick overview rather than an exhaustive deep dive into Bordeaux’s vineyards. Still, this makes it perfect for travelers who want a taste (literally and figuratively) without committing a whole day.

This experience is best suited for wine lovers, curious travelers new to Bordeaux wines, or anyone wanting an interactive, fun way to learn about wine classifications and tasting techniques. Whether you’re on a tight schedule or simply want a relaxed, guided introduction to Bordeaux wines, this tour hits the spot.

Good To Know

• Expert Guidance: Guadalupe is a certified sommelier who makes the session both educational and fun.
• Region Knowledge: Learn about Bordeaux’s appellations, soils, and classifications in an accessible way.
• Tasting Variety: Sample four wines, including sparkling, white, and red, with the option to upgrade to seven wines.
• Perfect Pairings: Each wine is paired with French cheeses, enhancing the tasting experience.
• Value for Money: At around $60, it offers a focused, high-quality introduction to Bordeaux wines.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and interaction.

A Close Look at the Bordeaux Wine Tasting Experience

The Setting and Meeting Point

The tour begins at L’ampélo, cave à manger, located at 3 Rue Gobineau in Bordeaux. This spot is accessible by public transportation, making it convenient for visitors staying in or near the city center. The meeting time is at 5:30 pm, perfect for winding down after an afternoon of sightseeing or exploring Bordeaux’s streets.

Duration and Group Size

Spanning approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, the experience feels intimate without being rushed. The maximum group size is 10, allowing Guadalupe to give personalized attention and answer individual questions. This small-group setup also fosters a friendly, engaging atmosphere — you’re encouraged to ask anything about Bordeaux wines or general wine tips.

The Guided Experience

Guadalupe’s credentials as a DipWSET holder and CMS Certified Sommelier add credibility. From the moment the session begins, her enthusiasm and clarity shine through. She effortlessly explains complex topics like wine classifications, soil types, and grape varieties, breaking them down into digestible nuggets.

We loved the way Guadalupe used storytelling to connect the wines to Bordeaux’s history and landscape. She also introduced us to how Bordeaux wines are made, from vineyard to bottle, giving us a sense of the care and tradition embedded in each glass.

The Tasting Lineup

Participants sample four wines:

• 1 Cremant de Bordeaux (sparkling)
• 1 White Bordeaux
• 2 Reds (from Bordeaux’s famous blends)

Each wine is served in tasting pours, accompanied by a platter of three French cheeses or a mix with charcuterie. The pairing is a highlight, elevating the tasting and helping you appreciate how Bordeaux wines balance acidity, tannins, and fruit with rich cheese flavors.

Upgrading to Premium Wines

For those craving a deeper dive, there’s an optional upgrade to taste three additional Premium Grand Cru Classe and Classified wines. This brings the total to seven wines, offering a chance to experience Bordeaux’s most prestigious labels. It’s an excellent way for enthusiasts to distinguish the nuances between standard and high-tier Bordeaux wines.

Learning in a Fun, Interactive Way

One of the most praised aspects from previous participants is Guadalupe’s engaging style. She encourages questions, offers tips on reading wine labels, and shares tasting techniques that you can use at home. As one reviewer put it, “No previous knowledge is required, and everything is explained in a fun and interactive way.”

What You’ll Take Away

By the end of the session, you’ll have a solid understanding of Bordeaux’s wine regions, how to identify different styles, and how to recognize aromas and flavors unique to Bordeaux wines. Plus, you’ll leave with practical tips on wine selection and tasting—great for future visits or wine shopping.

The Value and Practicalities

Cost vs. Experience

Priced at just under $60 per person, this tasting offers excellent value. For that price, you get expert guidance, four to seven wines, paired cheeses, and a memorable educational experience. The small group size ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd, making it a worthwhile investment for wine lovers.

What’s Not Included

Transportation isn’t included, so plan to meet at the designated spot. Given Bordeaux’s walkability, this isn’t usually an issue, but those with mobility concerns should consider transportation options.

Cancellation Policy

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which provides flexibility in case your plans change unexpectedly.

Who Should Book This Tour?

Wine novices will appreciate Guadalupe’s approachable teaching style and the straightforward explanations of Bordeaux’s wine classifications and terroirs. Wine aficionados looking for a structured, guided tasting with high-quality wines will also find this experience rewarding, especially with the premium upgrade option. Travelers seeking a relaxed yet informative activity in Bordeaux, or those wanting a knowledge boost before visiting local vineyards, will find this tour hits the right note.

Final Thoughts

This wine tasting experience combines the expertise of a certified sommelier with a practical, engaging approach to Bordeaux wines. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of what makes Bordeaux wines special, along with a few bottles to remember the journey. We especially love Guadalupe’s ability to make complex topics accessible and her knack for selecting wines that surprise and delight.

For anyone wanting to explore Bordeaux’s wine scene without committing a full day or hefty price tag, this experience offers a perfect introduction. It’s particularly ideal for curious travelers, small groups, or couples who enjoy wine and good company.

If you’re a wine lover eager to learn and taste in a convivial setting, this tour delivers both in spades.

FAQ

Is previous wine knowledge required? No, the tour is designed to be fun and educational, suitable for all levels of experience.

How many wines will I taste? You’ll sample four wines as standard, with an option to upgrade to seven wines including premium labels.

What foods are included? A platter of French cheeses or a mix with charcuterie is served alongside the wines to enhance the flavors.

Where does the tour start? It begins at L’ampélo, cave à manger, located at 3 Rue Gobineau, Bordeaux.

What is the best time to join? The session starts at 5:30 pm, ideal for winding down after a day of sightseeing.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

This guided wine tasting in Bordeaux offers an enriching blend of education, tasting, and local charm—perfect for making the most of your time in this renowned wine region.