FRANCE
burgundy wine travellers guide
THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE
Burgundy Wine Traveller’s Guide
Embark on an exquisite journey through France’s Burgundy region, renowned for its elegant Pinot Noir and crisp Chardonnay. This Burgundy Wine Traveller’s Guide unveils the charm of Côte d’Or’s prestigious vineyards and Beaune’s historic domaines. From Dijon’s vibrant wine bars to Chablis’ mineral-rich slopes, savor refined wines paired with French cuisine. Our curated itineraries (1, 3, and 5 days) and top domaine picks ensure an unforgettable adventure. Dive into Burgundy’s storied wine culture and let every sip enchant you!
Top Tips for Exploring Burgundy’s Wine Country
Best Time to Visit
Visit in September–October for harvest season and mild weather (15–23°C). Spring (April–June) offers blooming vineyards; summer is warm (20–30°C), winter quieter (0–10°C).
Transportation
Rent a car (~€35–€55/day) for flexibility across Côte d’Or and Chablis. Alternatively, book private wine tours to avoid driving after tastings.
Wine Tasting Etiquette
Sip slowly to appreciate nuanced flavors. Engage with winemakers for insights. Pair wines with local dishes like escargots or coq au vin for a full experience.
Language and Culture
Learn basic French phrases like “Santé” (cheers). English is common at major domaines, but a guide enhances smaller estate visits. Dress smart-casual for tastings.
Budget Tips
Book winery visits in advance for discounts (~€10–€25). Stay in guesthouses in Beaune (~€45/night). Enjoy affordable meals at bistros (~€8–€18).
Safety
Burgundy is safe, but stay cautious in busy Dijon markets. Stay hydrated during tastings and use designated drivers or tour services for safe travel.
About Burgundy Wines
Burgundy, in eastern France, is a pinnacle of fine wine, celebrated for its terroir-driven Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The region’s Côte d’Or, split into Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune, produces world-class reds and whites from meticulously classified vineyards, including Grand Crus like Romanée-Conti. Chablis yields crisp, mineral-rich Chardonnay, while Beaujolais offers vibrant Gamay. With a winemaking history dating back to monastic times, Burgundy’s 100+ appellations emphasize precision and elegance. Wine culture thrives in local bistros, paired with Burgundian cuisine, making it a must-visit for oenophiles seeking refinement.
Domaine de la Romanée-Conti
Location: Vosne-Romanée, Côte d’Or, 20 km south of Dijon.
History: Founded in 1869, known for its rare Grand Cru wines.
Wines: Romanée-Conti, La Tâche. Noted for unparalleled elegance.
Activities: Exclusive tastings (by appointment), vineyard tours.
How to Book: Reserve well in advance (~€50–€100).
Domaine Leflaive
Location: Puligny-Montrachet, Côte d’Or, 10 km south of Beaune.
History: Family-run since 1717, a biodynamic pioneer.
Wines: Puligny-Montrachet, Bâtard-Montrachet. Known for rich, mineral whites.
Activities: Cellar tours, tastings, biodynamic workshops.
How to Book: Book in advance (~€15–€30).
Bouchard Père & Fils
Location: Beaune, Côte d’Or, 40 km south of Dijon.
History: Established in 1731, known for extensive vineyard holdings.
Wines: Beaune Grèves, Meursault. Noted for balanced reds and whites.
Activities: Cellar tours, tastings, heritage exhibitions.
How to Book: Reserve in advance (~€10–€25).
Maison Joseph Drouhin
Location: Beaune, Côte d’Or, 40 km south of Dijon.
History: Founded in 1880, known for organic and biodynamic practices.
Wines: Clos de Vougeot, Chablis Grand Cru. Known for refined profiles.
Activities: Cellar tours, tastings, vineyard walks.
How to Book: Book in advance (~€15–€30).
Domaine Laroche
Location: Chablis, 130 km southeast of Paris.
History: Founded in 1850, known for sustainable winemaking.
Wines: Chablis Premier Cru, Petit Chablis. Noted for flinty elegance.
Activities: Tastings, vineyard tours, winemaker talks.
How to Book: Reserve in advance (~€10–€20).
Beaune (Day 1)
Highlights: Bouchard Père & Fils, Hospices de Beaune, wine bars.
Transport: Train from Paris to Beaune (2.5 hrs, ~€25–€50) or car (~€35/day).
Beaune & Côte d’Or (Days 1–3)
Highlights: Maison Joseph Drouhin, Domaine Leflaive, Hospices de Beaune.
Transport: Train from Paris to Beaune (~2.5 hrs, €25–€50) or car (~€35–€55/day).
Day 2: Morning – Drive to Puligny-Montrachet, Domaine Leflaive tasting; Afternoon – Côte de Beaune vineyard walk; Evening – Dinner in Beaune.
Day 3: Morning – Visit Beaune’s wine museum; Afternoon – Relax at a wine bar; Evening – Return to Paris.
Beaune & Côte de Nuits (Days 1–2)
Highlights: Maison Joseph Drouhin, Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Beaune’s Old Town.
Transport: Train from Paris to Beaune (~2.5 hrs, €25–€50).
Day 2: Morning – Drive to Vosne-Romanée, Domaine de la Romanée-Conti tasting (if available); Afternoon – Côte de Nuits vineyard walk; Evening – Stay in Beaune.
Côte de Beaune & Chablis (Days 3–5)
Highlights: Domaine Leflaive, Domaine Laroche, Puligny-Montrachet, Chablis.
Transport: Drive from Beaune to Puligny-Montrachet (~15 min, €5–€10) and Chablis (~1.5 hrs, €35–€55/day) or tour.
Day 4: Morning – Drive to Chablis, Domaine Laroche tasting; Afternoon – Chablis vineyard walk; Evening – Dinner in Chablis.
Day 5: Morning – Visit Chablis village; Afternoon – Relax at a Beaune wine bar; Evening – Return to Paris.
Your Burgundy Wine Adventure Awaits
Burgundy’s refined wine legacy has enchanted you with its elegant Pinot Noir and crisp Chardonnay. From Domaine de la Romanée-Conti’s prestige to Leflaive’s mineral whites, your journey through this iconic region is unforgettable. Savor the flavors and raise a glass—Santé!
For more inspiration and detailed travel tips, visit our Burgundy Wine Traveller’s Guide.