Beaune Underground Caves Tour and Burgundy Wine Tasting

4.9
(20 Reviews)

About this activity

Smartphone tickets accepted
Duration: 1 hour
This activity has EXCEPTIONAL reviews
Immediate confirmation
FREE Cancellation

Guide: English, French

This experience is currently unavailable

Experience Highlights

Step into the underground cellars of the Château de Villars-Fontaine and discover the secrets of Burgundy’s great wines. In just 1 hour (approx.), a sommelier will guide you through the cellar and offer you a guided tasting of historic vintages, some of which have been aged for over 20 years.

Groups are limited to a maximum of 8 people, ensuring an intimate experience and plenty of time for all your questions.

  • Direct access to one of Beaune’s oldest wine labyrinths
  • Taste well-aged wines: mineral whites and elegantly matured reds
  • Learn how to serve and store your bottles with advice from a sommelier

What’s included

  • Guided tour of the wineries
  • Tasting of various vintages (white and red wines)
  • Tasting notes sheet
  • Transport to/from the warehouse

Step by Step

Beneath the cobblestones of Beaune, you descend 37 steps into a network of tunnels carved out of limestone where the temperature remains constant at 12 °C. The dim light and the scent of oak create a unique atmosphere whilst the sommelier recounts the history of the domaine, a pioneer in producing wines for long-term ageing.

Amidst shelves crammed with dusty bottles, you’ll discover how the Kimmeridgian soils and the microclimates of the Côte-de-Nuits and the Côte-de-Beaune influence the wines. Then comes the tasting: tulip-shaped glasses set out on an old wine barrel, featuring a selection of whites and reds — a floral Puligny-Montrachet, a creamy Meursault, a spicy Savigny-lès-Beaune… — revealing notes of hazelnut, brioche and undergrowth.

Every sip becomes a masterclass on vintages, pairings and serving: why uncork 30 minutes beforehand, at what temperature to open a premier cru, or how to set up a home wine cellar without a huge investment. Before stepping back into the daylight, you’ll have a few minutes to purchase exclusive cuvées at cellar prices or have your purchases sent home in shock-resistant packaging.

Reviews

4.9
· 20 Reviews
  • U
    U.
    5
    An hour well spent: history, wines, intimate atmosphere. It doesn't feel rushed and you enjoy it.
  • T
    T.
    5
    The brochure in Spanish helps if you are not fluent in French or English; the tasting terms are better understood.
  • S
    S.
    5
    One of my favourite moments was stepping out into the clear day after dark in the cellar and breathing the fresh air.
  • R
    R.
    5
    For those who have not tasted much, this activity is ideal to begin to distinguish flavours without being overwhelmed.

Other Things You Should Know

  • Activity available in English and French.
  • This activity is available in several languages. You will select the language on the next screen.
  • Times: 10.30 am and 2.30 pm · please arrive 10 minutes early
  • Location: a 5-minute walk from the Hospices de Beaune
  • Accessibility: 37 steps; not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs
  • Temperature in the wine cellar: 12 °C; wear a light jacket even in summer
  • Minimum age for tasting: 18 years; under-18s welcome (grape must)

Cancellation Policy

If you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund

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