France Private Food & Wine Odyssey

Your private chauffeur in a luxury Mercedes will collect you from the airport in Paris, where you’ll then head to the city to check in at your hotel. As the pinnacle of Parisian elegance, L’Hotel holds the distinction of being the world’s first boutique hotel and the final residence of literary icon Oscar Wilde. Perfectly positioned in the vibrant core of the Left Bank and surrounded by St Germain-des-Prés’ artistic heritage, bohemian spirit, and haute couture, this is the perfect place to begin your French odyssey.

After settling in and relaxing, you’ll meet your guide in the hotel lobby for the next couple of hours. Your local, expert, English-speaking guide will lead you on a walking tour featuring scenic gardens, charming squares, and plenty of opportunities for fresh air and photos. Explore the Pont des Arts, Jardin des Tuileries, Place de la Concorde, Pyramide du Louvre, and the Champs-Élysées. Along the way, you’ll learn intriguing anecdotes about Paris’s past, present, and future.

Next, indulge in a sublime, gourmet lunch at the elegant Lasserre—Bienvenue à Paris. This renowned restaurant has been a staple on the Parisian gourmand scene since 1942. Relish a wine-paired tasting menu featuring dishes like flavored duck foie gras stuffed with caramelized quince, lychees, and crispy rissoles of dried fruits or poached sea bass on a bed of shellfish and coriander juice, accompanied by young leeks and chanterelle mushrooms. And make sure to save room for dessert; they’re out of this world!

Enjoy a free evening to relax and settle into your delightful hotel to conclude your day. Welcome goodies of champagne and chocolates will await you in your charming room, along with a personalized tour keepsake book.

This morning, after a leisurely continental breakfast, meet your guide at a pre-arranged location for a guided walking tour through the captivating neighborhood of Montmartre. Often referred to as a “village within the city,” Montmartre has not only served historically as a strategic vantage point in battles due to its elevated position but also offers some of the city’s best views today. The area maintains its artistic and quirky atmosphere, home to renowned artists, singers, and writers since the late 19th century. With landmarks like the famed Moulin Rouge and Le Chat Noir nearby, take this opportunity to soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Sip coffee in one of the bustling squares or simply enjoy people-watching.

After such an energetic morning, you’ll undoubtedly be ready for lunch. A treat awaits you: a French wine masterclass with food pairings designed to provide an informative overview of your forthcoming French wine odyssey. This experience takes place in a gorgeous, ancient stone wine cellar lined with historic vintages, some dating back a hundred years. Your sommelier will guide you through France’s major wine regions, each paired with a delectable hors d’oeuvre.

Upon returning to your hotel, take some time to unwind in the hotel’s hammam-style pool and steam room. Alternatively, relax in the lounge and savor an aperitif while listening to a live jazz band. For dinner options, refer to your Cellar Tour Keepsake; the hotel’s concierge will be happy to make the necessary reservations. Make the most of your time in this romantic city, as tomorrow you’ll hit the road—bound for wine country.

Drive to the scenic Vallée de la Marne in the Champagne region this morning, taking in the lovely views en route to Épernay, where your private boat captain and professional sommelier will be waiting for you with a charming timber boat dating to the 1920s. Embark on a private wine cruise featuring champagne tastings from independent Champagne Maisons. As you sail by dreamy vineyards and quaint hamlets, enjoy an array of Champagne styles—Brut Nature Blanc de Blancs, Blanc de Meunier, Rosé de Saignée, 100% Pinot Gris, and more—each paired with sumptuous French gourmet offerings like caviar and local cheeses. It’s a true VIP picnic and a unique way to visit the Champagne wine country!

Once back on land, head to Reims, where you’ll stretch your legs with a short yet captivating walking tour of the picturesque, historic center. Marvel at architectural masterpieces, including the Gothic Cathedral of Notre Dame, historically chosen to crown the kings of France and host to 33 coronations. Today, it stands as one of the best examples of Gothic art.

Next, visit Pommery Champagne House. During a privately guided tour, explore their cellars, set in chalk caves that the Romans quarried in the third century AD. The chalk serves as an ideal temperature regulator, maintaining a constant temperature of 10 °C. This allows for perfect foam development and optimal aging of the wine. After a wonderful tour, you will enjoy a VIP tasting in the monumental Pommery House.

As evening approaches, settle into your luxurious Relais accommodation at the Domaine Les Crayères. Enjoy some free time to relax and freshen up before dinner.

End your first day in glamorous Champagne with a luxurious gastronomic tasting menu at your hotel’s fine 2-starred Michelin restaurant, complete with champagne pairings that include Krug.

This morning offers a rustic and authentic experience, a Champagne lunch with terrific local dishes. This is such a nice contrast to the slicker, more glamorous side of Champagne, and you will enjoy the warm hospitality and, above all, the stellar Champagnes.

Your chauffeur will drive you to one of the most prestigious Grand Cru villages, Verzy in Montagne de Reims, to family-owned Maison Penet-Chardonnet. Only producing Grand Cru Champagne and with very low or zero dosage thanks to the superb quality of the terroir and viti-vinification processes.

Following your private tour, you will be seated for a champagne-tasting lunch at the winemaker’s house. After lunch, your driver is at your disposal to explore the adorable tiny village of Hautvillers (Dom Perignon’s birthplace) or the Champagne City museum in Ay, where you can discover everything you wanted to know about the history of this enthralling and unique region.

Head to Épernay then, the Champagne region’s other main wine hub and considered by many to be the capital of Champagne. A must-see if for nothing more than its central avenue, “Avenue de Champagne,” lined with impressive, opulent Maison and chateaux of the Champagne houses. Underground is equally remarkable, where over 100 km of cellars are carved out of the chalk and house millions of bottles of developing Champagne.

Your final stop today is the iconic Moët & Chandon, a French champagne house steeped in over 250 years of history. The house gained international fame under the stewardship of Jean-Remy Moët, the founder Claude Moët’s grandson. In the late 18th century, he introduced Champagne to the world stage, winning over distinguished patrons such as Thomas Jefferson and Napoleon. At this legendary establishment, you’ll experience an exclusive, behind-the-scenes tour of their atmospheric cellars, culminating in a private tasting of the globally acclaimed Dom Pérignon.

The evening is yours for an exceptional dining experience or something more relaxed at a local bistro in Reims.

Start your morning with a VIP private tour at Veuve Clicquot, where you’ll learn more about the remarkable story of Madame Clicquot. Widowed at the tender age of 27, she played an extraordinary role for a woman of her time as head of the company. She is honored for her imaginative innovations, such as the riddling table, which is still used today. A tasting will follow, featuring some of their finest champagnes, including rare vintages served with tasty local cheeses.

Then, head on to medieval Troyes. Compared to plush Épernay, Troyes is far more flamboyant, with tall, colorful, semi-wooden houses that seem to prop one another up precariously. Your table awaits at the refined Le Valentino, where fish and seafood are the specialties, perfectly paired with more of the region’s finest bubbles. Savor dishes like ‘Roasted Lobster Ravioli with Shellfish Sauce’ or ‘Roasted John Dory with Girolles, Candied Tomatoes, Spinach, and Carrot Juice with Citrus.’

Following lunch, you’ll have free time to wander around beautiful Troyes, admiring the top-heavy, tilting houses and the grand Gothic cathedral.

Next, your driver will transport you to Dijon, known worldwide for its mustard. The transfer will take about 2 hours, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery. En route, there will be plenty of opportunities to stop and stretch your legs or use the amenities. Dijon is much more than just the birthplace of mustard; until the 15th century, it was the capital of the powerful empire of Burgundy, and its architectural grandiosity is very much intact today. Highlights include the Duke’s Palace and the covered market. You’ll also be able to climb the 316 steps of the Tour Philippe Le Bon for a rewarding view and visit the Boutique Maille Dijon.

Your hotel for the night is none other than the Grand Hotel La Cloche, located in the heart of this vibrant city. Make the most of a free evening with our suggestions.

Visit the emblematic Clos de Vougeot this morning, stroll through the property, and admire the vineyards. The winery dates back to the 12th century when monks from a nearby abbey built the original structure. While Clos de Vougeot no longer produces wine, the chateau symbolizes Burgundy’s rich history. Next, continue to Gevrey-Chambertin for a wine-tasting lunch at Drouhin-Laroze, where you’ll be served Grand Cru wines from an estate with a wealthy family history dating back to 1850. The current owners, Philippe and Christine, represent the 5th generation managing the estate, and their adult children, Caroline and Nicolas, are already actively involved.

This afternoon, stop at the impressive cellars of Château de Marsannay on your way back to Dijon for a private tour and tasting. This experience contrasts sharply with the family-run Drouhin-Laroze, featuring over 28 hectares that include some of Marsannay’s finest climats. Sample some of their exceptional wines while taking in the view of the magnificent vineyards.

Arrive back in Dijon during the early evening, allowing some free time to relax before dinner at your hotel. Whether you enjoy an aperitif in the hotel’s plush bar or unwind in your room, prepare for a swanky evening—so dress to impress.

A sublime Burgundian dinner at the 2 Michelin-starred Hostellerie du Chapeau Rouge awaits you tonight. Chef William Frachot, a self-proclaimed “terroir lover,” will prepare mouthwatering dishes that bring out the natural flavors of the premium ingredients he carefully selects. Expect culinary delights like Eggs Meurette and Beef Bourguignon, followed by exquisite local cheeses. For dessert, options may include Blackcurrant Meringue or the divine Gingerbread Soufflé. Each course is beautifully paired with selections such as Crémant de Bourgogne Terroir de Chazot – Domaine Picamelot, Saint Romain 2013 – Domaine Lignier, and Givry 1er Cru Servoisine 2014 – Domaine Joblot. Bon appétit!

Journey south this morning to the alluring Burgundian gem of Beaune. As it has been for centuries, this pretty, walled town remains the heart of the Burgundy wine trade. Your first stop is a VIP wine tour in Aloxe-Corton at Comte Senard. Notably, Aloxe-Corton is the only appellation offering red and white Grand Crus. Your visit will include a tour of the pristine Clos des Meix vineyards in the Corton Grand Cru Monopole and their stunning 13th-century cellars, culminating in tasting some of their finest wines.

Next, a superb wine-tasting lunch awaits you at the legendary Chateau de Chassagne-Montrachet. Proudly owned by the Picard family since 1951, this beautiful chateau sits opposite the world-famous Grand Cru Le Montrachet. Your lunch will feature an aperitif bourguignon, select charcuterie, a cream of poultry soup, and a heavenly assortment of regional cheeses, each expertly paired with their iconic wines.

After lunch, a 15-minute drive takes you to Maison Drouhin, housed in the old parliament buildings of Beaune. The historical cellars, sprawling almost one hectare beneath the city, once belonged to the Canons of Beaune, the Dukes of Burgundy, and the Kings of France. Your private VIP tour will conclude with tasting some of their most emblematic wines.

Finally, check in to your new hotel and enjoy a free evening to explore Beaune’s charming, cobblestoned streets, lined with medieval townhouses and inviting wine bars. If you need dining tips, consult your Cellar Tours Keepsake, and the concierge will assist you in making reservations.

One last Burgundian cellar this morning, and we’ve made it a particularly interesting one; Bouchard Père et Fils, one of the oldest estates, founded in 1731, has been on the map for nearly three centuries and nine generations. It is also one of the largest, boasting over 130 hectares of vineyard, including 12 Grand Cru and 74 Premier Cru across several appellations. The domain includes the majestic Château de Beaune, an impressive royal fortress dating back to the 15th century. Before a VIP tasting, your private visit will include some of the stunning grounds and cellars.

Then, you will hit the road and head south to Beaujolais, visiting first the quaint Chateau de Bellevue for a private tour and tasting lunch. This idyllic 19th-century residence is surrounded by beautiful gardens and grounds overlooking the village of Villié-Morgon. Your tasting lunch will include Château de Bellevue–Morgon and choice wines from their other estates in Fleurie, Moulin-à-Vent, and Saint-Amour.

After lunch and en route to Lyon, stop for a sightseeing and a digestive walk at charming Oingt. Perched high on a hill in the middle of the “Pierres Dorées” or Golden Stones is the pretty village of Oingt. The medieval buildings are a gorgeous sandy color from locally sourced honey-colored stone. Bursting with wine boutiques, bars, and cafés where you can sample and purchase local wines.

After a great day of scenery, on to Lyon, the food and wine lovers’ capital! Settle into your hotel, the luxurious Villa Florentine, which stands high on the hill and offers the most amazing panoramic view of the city. A free evening in this fantastic city, with our suggestions.

The morning is yours, so take your time, sleep in, enjoy a leisurely breakfast, take a stroll, and hit some museums or great shops. Lyon is a fascinating city to discover; it is a mecca for gourmands and steeped in history, which dates back over 2500 years. Visit Vieux Lyon, the UNESCO-listed Renaissance quarter, and explore the “Traboules,” tiny passageways running beneath and sometimes through the buildings and houses dating back to the 16th-century silk trade. Cathedral Saint-Jean is worth a visit, if for nothing more than its remarkable 14th-century Astronomical clock, and check out the endless “bouchons” — typical Lyonnaise bistros.

Lunch is exquisite today at Michelin-starred Têtedoie, with its magnificent views. Like your hotel, Têtedoie is nestled in the city’s heights, so it offers the most fabulous lookout over striking Lyon, enhanced by the floor-to-ceiling windows. Chef Christian Têtedoie has been passionate about gastronomy from a very young age and started working in some of the country’s top kitchens at just 17 years old. The ever-evolving seasonal tasting menu with wine pairing is a terrific option. Prepare yourself for the likes of “Roasted Pork, Loin, Pig’s trotters crusts, Prunes, Cereals, Red Cabbage & Whisky emulsion” or “Roasted blue Lobster tail and claws, Braised calf’s head, Lentils and Lobster emulsion. For something sweet, “Hazelnut hot soufflé, Tangerine Marmalade, Kalamansi Tangerine sorbet,” and naturally, a fabulous selection of local cheeses — utterly delicious.

Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your leisure.

At your preferred time, a Mercedes will transfer you to Lyon’s airport for your flight to Bordeaux. Upon arrival in Bordeaux, your chauffeur will greet you and whisk you away to the Grand Spa Hotel, your glamorous abode in the heart of this beautiful city. It is, without a doubt, the most majestic hotel in the city. Settle into your elegant room, whose décor was designed by the famed French designer Jacques Garcia.

After settling in, your driver will take you to the spectacular Cité du Vin, where you will have a few hours to explore on your own before enjoying a sunset dinner at Le 7. This restaurant is located on-site and overlooks the river. The Cité du Vin is a captivating, interactive museum dedicated to the world of wine. This immersive experience delves into every aspect you could wish to know about viticulture, from its historical roots and the nuances of terroir to the intricate processes of vinification, diverse styles of wines, and groundbreaking modern innovations. Both informative and engaging, the museum offers a dynamic and thoroughly entertaining journey through the rich tapestry of winemaking.

Then, head up to the 7th floor to Le 7 restaurant, where a spectacular view of the city and river provides a unique backdrop for your sensorial journey through locally sourced and internationally inspired creations, accompanied by an exquisite range of worldly wines.

Today, a sensational experience awaits you at Cos d’ Estournel, one of France’s finest collector estates. This impressive domain in St Estephe showcases an exotic touch in its décor, thanks to the artistry of famed architect Jacques Garcia, who has adorned the place with ornate elephant statues and blazing lanterns. The décor is inspired by the estate’s founder, Louis d’Estournel, who made his fortune in Asia in the 19th century. These elements contrast beautifully with the chateau’s original features, as do the state-of-the-art installations, such as the impressive glass bridge that crosses the large barrel cellar. Your reception will be fit for a Maharaja. After the captivating tour, you will be seated for a tasting of their extraordinary range: Cos d’Estournel Blanc, Les Pagodes de Cos, and various vintages of Cos d’Estournel.

A VIP lunch follows at Château Phélan Ségur with their exclusive chef. Originally of Irish heritage, Château Phélan Ségur has been firmly on the wine map for centuries and now encompasses over 70 hectares of magnificent clay-gravel vineyards on the hillocks and plateaux of St-Estèphe. After a vertical tasting, you will be invited to lunch in the private dining room in the family home. Sit back and savor the moment!

On your return to Bordeaux, stop into Château Léoville Poyferré for an exclusive visit and tasting. Amid the small, pebble-covered appellation of St. Julien sits this historic Château, formerly part of the vast Léoville estate (subsequently split into 3). Léoville Poyferre gained its current prestige in the late 1980s to 1990s. Your privileged tasting will include excellent wines: Château Léoville Poyferré and Château Moulin Riche—You will have a free evening in Bordeaux, for which we are happy to provide further suggestions.

Visit the cult winemaker Château Clinet this morning in pretty Pomerol. Pomerol is relatively new on the Bordeaux wine map, not receiving recognition as a “star player” until the mid-20th century. Yet many Pomerol chateaux reach much higher price tags these days than neighboring first-growths; the prestigious Château Clinet is a prime example. The dynamic and youthful team at Château Clinet is a driving force behind its success. Owner and manager Ronan Laborde was only 19 when his father purchased the estate in 1999; he’s a true inspiration.

You will then be treated to a gastronomic tasting menu at the outstanding Hostellerie du Plaisance in the medieval hamlet of Saint Emilion. It comes as no surprise that this culinary haven has been awarded 2 Michelin stars. Head Chef Ronan Kervarrec is nothing short of an artist; his creations from prime locally sourced ingredients never fail to amaze. You will dine on a tasting menu designed to your tastes and dietary requirements; dishes may include offerings such as “Scallops, Sealed kernel and Sturia Caviar, cauliflower purée with seaweed, roasted avocado and tangy pickles” or Beef-Smoked tenderloin with vine cuttings, pan-sautéed cepe mushrooms, and Macaire potato truffled fine mousse” are tantalizing examples of what’s in store.

You’ll then have some leisure time to shop or stroll through the charming hamlet before continuing with a wine experience in the St Emilion wine region at Château Soutard.

Your late afternoon visit begins at the end of a picturesque, tree-lined drive that leads to the imposing Château Soutard. You will be treated to a private winery visit and a VIP tasting of their top wines. As the day draws to a close, enjoy sipping their sterling wines as the sun gracefully sets over Saint-Émilion – quintessentially French.

Visit Château Lascombes this morning, one of the largest wine estates in the Médoc, steeped with history, and thanks to its most recent proprietor successfully benefiting from an integral revamp and modernization of the winery. Enjoy a private tour and unique tasting, including sampling the individual varietals before the current vintage blend and some of their finest second growths.

A gourmet private lunch and wine tour at Chateau La Lagune follows; this is a significant highlight of this trip! Lunch is served in the kitchen, but it is the prettiest and coziest French country-style kitchen you can imagine. Your private chef will prepare seasonal dishes washed down with delicious estate wines, including some star vintages. An example of what awaits: Parmesan and Fresh Tomato Tarte Green Salade with a Tapenade Vinaigrette with Mademoiselle L 2012, Roasted Cod, Creamy Risotto, and Fresh Seasonal Vegetables with Château La Lagune 2010, A Selection of fine Cheeses from Artisan Cheesemaker Beillevaire with a Dense, Warm Chocolate Cake and Sauternes finale – heavenly!

After lunch, visit the beautiful Pichon Longueville property in Pauillac. For many, Pauillac is the ultimate example of a “Classic” Bordeaux, and Pichon Longueville is no exception, besides the fact that it wins hands down the prettiest wine estate in the region with its fairy castle-esque turrets. Your exclusive tour will include Château Pibran, Les Tourelles de Longueville, and a couple of vintages of Château Pichon Baron. Your evening is free to pack and rest before your departure.

At your desired time, your driver will take you to Bordeaux airport for your outbound flight today, and this concludes your unforgettable France Wine Odyssey! We hope you have had a wonderful time and hope to see you on another Cellar Tour vacation soon. Bon voyage!