The Candle & Wine Pairing Workshop

The Candle & Wine Pairing Workshop in Marseille: A Journey of Senses

If you’re looking for a truly different way to experience Marseille, this Candle & Wine Pairing Workshop offers a charming twist on local culture. Instead of just tasting wines or enjoying the sights, you’ll get to craft your own candle while sipping some of the region’s best wines. It’s a cozy, sensory adventure perfect for those who enjoy hands-on activities and authentic flavors.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the combination of fragrance and flavor creates a multi-layered experience that’s both relaxing and educational. Second, the personalized candle-making gives you a tangible souvenir from your trip—no mass-produced gift here. Third, the stunning Marseille views from the light-filled apartment set the perfect scene.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the location in a historic, no-lift building, which might not be suitable for everyone with mobility issues. This experience is ideal for curious travelers eager to explore Marseille’s creative side, especially those who appreciate wine, fragrance, and small-group intimacy.

Good To Know

• Unique pairing experience blending wine tasting and candle making
• Hands-on activity with scents sourced from Grasse, France’s perfume capital
• Beautiful setting with views of Marseille landmarks from a sunlit apartment
• Small group size for personalized attention and relaxed atmosphere
• Eco-friendly materials for sustainable candle creation
• Includes local wines—up to three glasses—and high-quality fragrance oils

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Candle & Wine Pairing Workshop

The Setting and Atmosphere

Located in Longchamp, just south of Marseille’s city center, the workshop takes place in a bright, inviting apartment overlooking Palais Longchamp. With views of La Bonne Mère and, if timing allows, a sunset, you’ll find yourself immersed in authentic Marseille charm. The space has been described as relaxed and welcoming, making it easy to unwind and enjoy the creative process.

The apartment’s vintage charm adds a layer of authentic ambiance—think high ceilings, large windows, and a view that’s perfect for snapping photos. The setting is spacious enough for up to six participants, ensuring everyone receives personal attention from Simone and Guillaume.

The Facilitators: Simone and Guillaume

Simone, a candle maker with over 12 years of experience, brings her expertise in fragrances and candle craft. Guillaume complements her with his deep knowledge of wines from the South of France, expertly pairing local vintages with each scent. Their friendly, approachable style keeps the atmosphere light and engaging, encouraging conversation and curiosity.

Reviews mention that Simone’s passion for fragrances is contagious—she guides you through scent combinations with genuine enthusiasm. Guillaume’s wine selections are praised for their local authenticity and quality, making each sip a true taste of Marseille and its surroundings.

What to Expect During the Workshop

The workshop lasts around 1.5 hours, making it a perfect addition to a day of sightseeing or relaxing in Marseille. Here’s a typical flow:

Introduction: Simone and Guillaume introduce the concept of pairing fragrances and wines, explaining the building blocks of candles—top, heart, and base notes—and how they relate to wine notes.

Scent and Wine Selection: You’ll explore seasonal scents inspired by the South of France, sourced from Grasse, the world-famous perfume capital. Guillaume then helps you select local wines that match these scents—think crisp whites, rosé, or light reds, depending on the season.

Candle Making: Using natural French rapeseed wax, organic cotton wicks, and eco-friendly fragrances, you’ll pour your own candle into a 24cl glass jar with a lid. The process is straightforward but rewarding, with plenty of tips from Simone on achieving a perfect pour and scent balance.

Finishing Touches: Once your candle has cooled, you’ll label it with recycled paper and take home your personalized souvenir—an elegant reminder of your Marseille adventure.

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The Experience of Making and Tasting

Participants consistently mention how relaxed and enjoyable the workshop is. The mixture of creative activity with wine tasting creates a convivial vibe. Guests appreciate the chance to learn about fragrance blending and how it parallels wine tasting, making the experience both fun and educational.

One reviewer notes, “It’s not just about making a candle; it’s about understanding how scents and flavors work together,” highlighting the thoughtful approach Simone and Guillaume bring to the session.

The Wines and Their Role

Up to three glasses of local wines are included, allowing you to truly savor the flavors of the South of France. The wines are carefully selected to match the seasonal scents, enhancing both the tasting and the smelling experience. Participants often describe the wines as fresh, well-chosen, and perfectly paired with the fragrances.

Practical Details and Considerations

The workshop costs $76 per person, which, considering the quality of materials, expert guidance, and the souvenir candle, offers solid value. It’s a small-group experience, limited to six guests, ensuring you get plenty of personalized attention.

The duration of 1.5 hours makes it manageable to fit into a day’s itinerary. However, be aware that the space is in a historic building without lift access, so stairs might be an issue for some. The workshop is conducted in English, making it accessible to international travelers.

Cancellation policy is flexible—free up to 24 hours in advance—meaning you can book confidently without feeling locked in.

Who Will Love This Workshop?

This experience is perfect for creative travelers, wine enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a personalized souvenir from Marseille. It’s also suitable for couples, small groups of friends, or solo explorers eager to learn something new in a relaxed setting.

However, those with mobility challenges or allergies should be aware of the building’s stairs and the ingredients used. Kids under 18 aren’t accepted, making it more of an adult activity.

Final Thoughts

The Candle & Wine Pairing Workshop in Marseille offers a distinct blend of sensory pleasures. You’ll leave with a handcrafted candle, a deeper appreciation for local wines, and a handful of charming stories from your time in Marseille. It’s an experience that balances creativity, education, and relaxation—perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, memorable activity.

If you’re looking for a small-group experience that combines local flavor with artisan craft, this workshop is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy immersive activities over typical sightseeing, and who want a tangible keepsake from their trip.

Overall, it’s a clever way to experience the South of France’s finest scents and wines in one charming sitting, with a dash of Marseille’s authentic flair.

FAQs

Is the workshop suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The candle-making process is straightforward, and Simone provides clear guidance. No prior experience is needed.

How many glasses of wine are included?
Up to three glasses of local wines from the South of France are included, allowing for a relaxed tasting experience.

Can I participate if I have allergies?
If you suffer from allergies, it’s best to inform the organizers beforehand. Please note that the workshop takes place in a historic building with stairs, which might be a consideration.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothes are fine. Expect to sit, pour, and possibly get a little wax on your hands—nothing too messy, but dress accordingly.

Will I get to keep my candle?
Yes, you will leave with your own hand-poured, personalized candle, a unique souvenir of your trip.

Is the workshop language only in English?
Yes, the classes are taught in English, making it accessible for international visitors.

To sum it up, the Candle & Wine Pairing Workshop is a delightful way to combine local culture, artisan craft, and sensory pleasure in Marseille. It’s ideal for those who want a meaningful, memorable activity that’s both fun and refined. Whether you’re a wine lover, a fragrance enthusiast, or simply looking to do something different, this experience offers a well-balanced mix of creativity and taste, all set against the beautiful backdrop of Marseille’s iconic sights.

You can check if your dates are available here: