Introductory workshop on wine tasting and wine and canelé pairing

Introduction

If you’re curious about the art of wine tasting but don’t want to spend hours or break the bank, this introductory workshop in Bordeaux might just be your perfect fit. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but reviews highlight its friendly vibe, expert guidance, and the tasty pairing of Bordeaux’s signature dessert—the canelé—with wine.

What we really like about this experience is how approachable it is for beginners, thanks to a knowledgeable wine scientist who demystifies the tasting process. Add in the charm of a small, intimate setting, the chance to learn from a multilingual instructor, and the inclusion of delicious canelés, and it’s easy to see why this workshop appeals.

One point to keep in mind: the session lasts just one hour, so if you’re looking for an in-depth, lengthy wine tour, this might feel a bit brief. Still, for those wanting a quick, insightful introduction to wine tasting with a local twist, this tour hits the spot.

This experience suits travelers eager to grasp the basics of wine tasting, enthusiasts interested in pairing wine with French desserts, and anyone wanting a relaxed, educational activity in Bordeaux’s lively city center.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Educational Approach: Led by a wine scientist, the workshop offers a scientific breakdown of tasting techniques.
• Authentic Pairing: Enjoy Bordeaux’s iconic canelé alongside guided tastings of red and sweet wines.
• Multilingual Guides: The session is accessible in English, French, Spanish, and Italian.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Flexible Cancellation: Full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Inclusive Options: Vegan and rum-free canelés available, catering to dietary preferences.

Exploring the Workshop: What You Can Expect

Set inside the cozy ambiance of Cassonade pâtisserie on rue du Pas-Saint-Georges, the workshop offers a warm, inviting environment—think Parisian café charm mixed with Bordeaux flavor. You’ll step into a space filled with the aroma of fresh pastries, where glasses and canelés are neatly prepared for your tasting.

Led by a doctor of oenology, the instructor guides you through the science behind wine aromas and tasting. They explain how the nose works, helping you understand olfactory memory, which is crucial for identifying flavors. This scientific perspective makes the session accessible, even for newcomers.

The workshop covers the main aroma families in wine, visual analysis (like inspecting color and clarity), olfactory analysis (sniffing and identifying scents), and mouth analysis (tasting for texture and sweetness). Expect clear, jargon-free explanations that make the complex world of wine approachable.

A highlight is the pairing of wine and canelé—a sweet, caramelized French pastry with a rich history connected to Bordeaux. The instructor explains the tradition behind the canelé and how its flavors complement the wines tasted. You will have the choice between the classic version, a rum-free option, or vegan canelé, ensuring everyone can enjoy the pairing.

At the end, there’s a lively Q&A session where you can ask about wine flavors, pairing tips, or anything that caught your interest. You’ll taste a red wine and a sweet wine, both carefully selected to illustrate different aroma profiles and sweetness levels.

The Included Delights

Your ticket covers the wine tasting of two varieties—red and sweet—and the canelé sampling, with options catering to dietary needs. The workshop is led by a friendly and multilingual scientist, making sure you get the most out of each sip and bite.

Additional treats are not included, so if you’re craving more pastries or coffee, you might want to plan ahead or grab a snack afterward. The focus remains on the core experience: learning, tasting, and pairing.

Practical Details

The workshop lasts approximately one hour, making it a perfect quick activity during your Bordeaux visit. It’s suitable for small groups—no more than 8 participants—which means plenty of opportunity to engage and ask questions.

Pricing is $116 for up to two people, which breaks down to a reasonable rate considering the personalized guidance and expert instruction you receive. For couples or friends, this represents good value, especially since canelés and wine are included.

Accessibility is well considered, with wheelchair-friendly facilities and sessions conducted in multiple languages, including French, English, Spanish, and Italian. You’ll meet inside the café, where everything is set up for a relaxed tasting experience.

Flexibility in booking is also a plus; you can reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

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In-Depth Look at the Experience

The workshop’s structure offers both educational and sensory benefits. From the start, the instructor emphasizes developing your olfactory memory—a skill that improves with practice and enhances your appreciation of wine long after the session ends.

Guests have noted the scientific approach as a major plus, as it demystifies tasting and helps even novices understand what to look for. One reviewer mentioned, “The instructor explained how the nose works in a way that made me realize I’d been missing so much in regular wine tastings.”

The pairing with canelé elevates the experience by adding a local flavor. The history of canelé is briefly shared, connecting it to Bordeaux’s rich culinary culture. The fact that vegan and rum-free options are available is a considerate touch, making the experience inclusive.

The tastings are described as balanced and thoughtfully selected, showcasing Bordeaux’s red and sweet wines without overwhelming newcomers. Many reviews appreciated the friendly, unpretentious environment—it’s more about learning and enjoying than about critiquing wines.

Participants also appreciated the small group size, which fosters interaction and personalized attention. The instructor’s multilingual ability means language barriers are minimal, making the experience accessible to a diverse clientele.

The time commitment of just 60 minutes makes it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule, while still providing enough depth to feel more confident about wine tasting afterward.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

When evaluating the $116 price point, consider the level of expertise, the inclusion of high-quality samples, and the personalized attention. For wine lovers and curious visitors, this workshop offers an excellent introduction to tasting fundamentals in a relaxed setting. The pairing of wine and canelé adds an authentic regional touch, making it more memorable than standard tastings.

Unlike larger, less personal tours, this experience emphasizes understanding, making it especially valuable for those who want to learn rather than just sample. Plus, with options for dietary restrictions and the ability to cancel free of charge, it’s flexible and low-risk.

This experience is ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers seeking a fun, educational activity in Bordeaux that won’t take up your whole day but will leave you with useful knowledge—and maybe a new appreciation for Bordeaux’s renowned wines.

The Sum Up

This wine and canelé pairing workshop offers a practical and engaging way to start your Bordeaux journey. The scientific approach makes it accessible, while the intimate setting fosters a relaxed, friendly vibe. If you’re looking for a quick but meaningful introduction to wine tasting, with the bonus of tasting Bordeaux’s iconic sweet pastry, this workshop delivers on both fronts.

It’s particularly suited for those new to wine tasting or curious about the region’s culinary traditions. The inclusion of multilingual guides, vegan options, and flexible booking makes it a versatile choice for a variety of travelers. While it’s a brief experience, the insights gained here can transform your understanding and enjoyment of Bordeaux wines.

Whether you’re a casual wine drinker or a budding connoisseur, this activity provides a delightful, educational taste of Bordeaux’s rich vinicultural culture—served with a side of history and a dash of sweetness.

FAQ

Is this workshop suitable for beginners? Yes, the workshop is designed to teach the basics of wine tasting, making it ideal for those with little to no prior experience.

How long does the session last? The workshop lasts about one hour, making it a quick yet informative activity.

Are there options for dietary restrictions? Absolutely, the canelé options include vegan and rum-free versions to accommodate different dietary needs.

Is the workshop multilingual? Yes, the session is led by a guide who speaks French, English, Spanish, and Italian, ensuring accessibility for a wide audience.

What wines will I taste? You will sample a red wine and a sweet wine, both carefully selected to demonstrate different aroma and flavor profiles.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled session, offering flexibility in your travel planning.

You can check if your dates are available here: