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
Your private half‑day tour begins with pickup at your accommodation in Bordeaux and a scenic drive through the vineyards of Graves and Sauternes. On arrival at Château d’Yquem, a member of the estate welcomes you for an in‑depth discovery of the property, its history and its unique terroir.
During this private tour, you typically:
Walk through the vineyards and learn how climate, soils and grape varieties contribute to the style of Yquem.
Visit the winemaking facilities and cellars, discovering the demanding selection, pressing and long aging processes.
Gain insight into Yquem’s heritage, iconic vintages and the philosophy behind its legendary sweet wines.
At the heart of the experience is a revealing tour and tasting that elucidates the dialogue between two epochs of Yquem. The visit concludes with a guided tasting of two vintages: Château d’Yquem 2016 and Château d’Yquem 2010, allowing you to compare expression, maturity and balance across these two years. After the tasting, your driver‑guide will take you back to Bordeaux.
After the visit, we will transfer you back to Bordeaux.
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Depart from your accommodation in Bordeaux
Drive to the Sauternes wine region, home of sweet Bordeaux wines
Discover the winemaking process and the effect of noble rot (Botrytis Cinerea)
Scenic drive through Sauternes vineyards and surrounding countryside
Drop off at your accommodation in 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