Assemble your own wine cuvée in the vineyard

Introduction

If you’ve ever dreamed of blending your own bottle of wine while soaking in the charming landscape of Bordeaux’s Saint-Emilion, this tour could be just the ticket. Unlike the typical wine tastings or large group classes, this experience offers a one-on-one connection with an expert oenologist, making it genuinely hands-on and personal.

What we love about this experience is the authentic setting—you’re welcomed directly into the winemaker’s workspace, surrounded by nature rather than a tourist trap. The chance to not only learn about winemaking but also to craft your own personal cuvée makes this a truly memorable activity. Plus, the option to spend a full day with a delicious onsite lunch adds excellent value for those wanting a full immersion in the vineyard environment.

One thing to keep in mind is that this experience is best suited for those with a genuine curiosity about wine—a full-day session with lunch may not be ideal if you’re short on time or prefer lighter, less involved activities. It’s also worth noting that the workshop is private, so it’s perfect for a small group or couples seeking a more intimate, customized experience.

This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone eager to understand the craft behind Bordeaux’s celebrated wines in a friendly, relaxed setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Setting: Directly in the winemaker’s workspace, away from big tourist crowds.
• Personalized Experience: You craft your own 75cl cuvée guided by an expert.
• Educational: Learn about vineyard management, winemaking techniques, and sensory analysis.
• Flexible Schedule: Available morning or afternoon, with options for a full day including lunch.
• Transport & Convenience: Pickup from Libourne station available, making logistics easier.
• Value for Money: At $90.07 per person, you get a comprehensive, hands-on experience that results in a personalized bottle to take home.

Exploring the Experience in Detail

Location and Setting

The tour takes place at La Mondette, just 15 minutes from the picturesque village of Saint-Emilion. The setting immediately suggests a peaceful, country ambiance—far from the hustle of big cities or tourist-heavy vineyards. It’s an authentic working estate, where you feel like a guest rather than a tourist. We loved the way the host, Baptiste, welcomed guests with a warm smile over a coffee, setting a friendly tone for the day.

The Vineyard Walk

Starting with a walk through the vineyard, you’ll get a chance to see the vines up close and hear about the estate’s terroir—the unique combination of soil, climate, and vineyard practices that influence the wine’s character. This part of the tour offers insight into how the vineyard’s environment shapes the grapes, making it ideal for those interested in the agricultural side of winemaking.

Winery and Barrel Cellar Tour

Next, Baptiste guides you through the winery and barrel cellar. Here, you’ll learn the basic principles of red winemaking, from fermentation to aging. This part of the experience is practical—you’re shown the equipment, the barrels, and the processes that turn grapes into wine. For wine lovers, understanding the significance of barrel aging and winemaking methods adds a layer of appreciation when tasting the final product.

Sensory Analysis and Tasting

Before blending, there’s a mini training in sensory analysis—an introduction to how aroma, taste, and mouthfeel define wine quality. Baptiste provides support materials, and you’ll practice identifying different flavors and aromas, sharpening your palate. Authentic and engaging, this section helps you approach tasting with more confidence, regardless of your prior experience. As one reviewer put it, the host made the process “insanely educational” and engaging.

The Heart of the Workshop: Blending Your Cuvée

Now comes the fun part: creating your own wine blend. Using different grape varieties and winemaking techniques, you’ll tailor a blend to your preferences, guided by Baptiste’s expert advice. The process is interactive, with plenty of room for experimentation—if you like a richer, bolder wine, or a lighter, fruitier style, you’ll find options to suit your taste.

At the end of the session, you’ll leave with a 75cl bottle of your own cuvée—an authentic souvenir of your time in Bordeaux. We loved the feeling of having personally crafted a one-of-a-kind wine, something tangible to take home and share.

Full Day Option and Onsite Lunch

For those seeking a longer, more relaxed experience, the full-day option includes a delicious lunch prepared on-site. Baptiste personally takes care of the cooking, making it a seamless way to extend your time on the estate and enjoy more of the vineyard atmosphere. This makes the experience not just educational but also a delightful culinary outing.

Transportation and Accessibility

The organizer offers to pick you up from Libourne station, which is a thoughtful touch for travelers arriving by train. With a maximum group size of four, the experience maintains a personal, intimate feel, avoiding the crowds often associated with larger tour groups.

Pricing and Value

At $90.07 per person, this experience offers great value. Considering you get a full winemaking lesson, a personalized bottle, and a chance to learn from a knowledgeable guide, it’s an activity that combines education, fun, and a memorable keepsake. The small group size means you get plenty of personal attention and tailored guidance.

Authenticity and Quality: What Travelers Say

The sole review available is glowing, praising Baptiste’s knowledge and engaging teaching style. One reviewer described the experience as “Insightful, engaging, and seriously educational,” emphasizing how Baptiste’s expertise made the day both fun and informative.

Another highlight from reviews is the quality of the wine—participants leave with a cuvée that truly reflects their preferences, making it more meaningful than a generic tasting. Many appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to understand wine beyond just drinking it.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This activity suits wine enthusiasts eager to go beyond tasting and into hands-on creation. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want a more authentic, intimate experience. If you’re interested in learning the craft of winemaking in a relaxed setting, this tour will satisfy your curiosity.

It’s less ideal if you’re on a tight schedule—though the 3-hour duration is manageable, a full day with lunch might be more appealing if you’re after a comprehensive, leisurely experience. Travelers who prefer large group tours or quick tastings might find this too personalized and slow-paced.

The Sum Up

This guided workshop in Saint-Emilion offers a rare opportunity to create your own wine in a genuine estate, under the guidance of a knowledgeable and passionate host. It balances education and hands-on participation with a warm, friendly atmosphere, making it ideal for those truly interested in understanding winemaking from grape to glass.

The experience’s standout features—personalized instruction, the chance to develop a custom blend, and the authentic vineyard setting—make it more than just a tasting. It’s a memorable journey into the heart of Bordeaux’s winemaking tradition, with a tangible souvenir to take home.

This activity offers excellent value for anyone wanting a deeper, more authentic connection to wine. It’s best suited for curious wine lovers, small groups seeking a special activity, or anyone wanting to learn about terroir and blending techniques in a relaxed environment. If you’re looking for a genuine, engaging, and educational wine experience, this workshop at La Mondette is hard to beat.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Pickup from Libourne station is available, making it easier to reach the estate without worrying about driving.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, with options for a full day including lunch.

Can I participate if I don’t have prior wine knowledge?
Absolutely. The tour includes introductory sensory analysis and guidance tailored to all levels.

What do I get at the end of the workshop?
You will leave with your own 75cl bottle of personalized cuvée that you helped create.

Is this activity suitable for children or non-drinkers?
The focus is on wine-making and tasting, so it’s primarily for adults. Service animals are allowed.

How many people can join?
The tour is private, accommodating up to 4 people, ensuring a personalized experience.

What is the price per person?
$90.07 per person, which includes the workshop, tastings, and estate visit.

Is lunch included?
Not in the basic package, but a full-day experience with lunch is available, with Baptiste providing delicious onsite cooking.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking outdoors and a desire to learn and experiment are all you need.

This experience stands out as a genuinely authentic way to learn about Bordeaux wines while creating your own special bottle. Whether you’re a dedicated wine lover or simply curious about the process, it’s a memorable, hands-on adventure you won’t forget.