Beaune Underground Caves Tour and Burgundy Wine Tasting
About this activity
Guide: English, French
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
- UU.An hour well spent: history, wines, intimate atmosphere. It doesn't feel rushed and you enjoy it.
- TT.The brochure in Spanish helps if you are not fluent in French or English; the tasting terms are better understood.
- SS.One of my favourite moments was stepping out into the clear day after dark in the cellar and breathing the fresh air.
- RR.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)


