The wines of Sauternes are produced thanks to the action of a fungus, Botrytis Cinerea that causes the grapes to rot. This process is called the noble rot when it comes to take place on healthy grapes and under a favorable climate.
The local climate of Sauternes during the summer time is usually composed of morning mist followed by warm and dry afternoons which has the effect to dry the grapes, reduce the water content and concentrate the sugar. The result is the making of an intensely sweet, gold colored wine with strong aromas of honeysuckle, blossom and stone.
From Bordeaux, reach Château d'Yquem & the Sauternes wine region
On this private half‑day tour from Bordeaux, your driver‑guide will pick you up at your accommodation and drive you through the rolling vineyards of Graves and Sauternes to reach Château d’Yquem. On arrival, a member of the Château’s team welcomes you for a journey of discovery into the history, terroir and savoir‑faire that have made Yquem a global reference.
Your private tour typically includes:
A guided walk through the vineyards, with explanations on terroir, grape varieties and the role of climate in developing noble rot.
A visit of the winemaking facilities and cellars, where you learn about the meticulous selection of berries, long barrel aging and blending philosophy.
An immersion into the esteemed world of Château d’Yquem, with stories about emblematic vintages, food pairings and serving recommendations.
The visit concludes with a focused tasting of one vintage: Château d’Yquem 2016. Guided by the estate’s ambassador, you explore the aromatic profile, texture and balance of this specific vintage and understand how it fits into the long history of Yquem wines. After the tasting, your driver‑guide will take you back to Bordeaux.
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Pick up at your accommodation in Bordeaux or surrounding area
Reach Château d'Yquem in the Sauternes wine region
Guided estate walk including vineyard & cellars
Discovery tour includes a tasting of Château d'Yquem 2016
After the visit & tasting, return to Bordeaux
Know before you book
Important information concerning wine tours in France: We carefully select the wineries visited during our wine tours, but the number of wines you’ll taste is set by each estate and varies by region, price and quality.
Enjoying wine is a wonderful part of discovering France’s culture and heritage. We encourage guests to savor each tasting responsibly and at their own pace. Please remember that wine contains alcohol, and moderation helps you fully appreciate the flavors, keep a clear head throughout the tour, and make the most of your experience.
Please also note: In France, snacks are usually not provided during wine tastings to preserve the purity of the wine's flavor. We recommend having a good breakfast or lunch beforehand.
In regards to the protection of the environment, we will no longer provide plastic bottles of water during our tours. You are kindly advised to bring your own. Water and refills are available at the wineries, museums and attractions visited.
Private Bordeaux Wine Tour available all year round (except Dec. 25th,Jan. 1st, May 1st)
4 hours private wine tour from Bordeaux to Chateau D'Yquem
Tour is operated in English, other languages on request
Prices are per person, maximum 8 persons - Larger groups contact us