Clos Montmartre ‘Paris in your Glass’ Wine Tasting

A Walk Through Montmartre’s Hidden Wine History: An In-Depth Review of the ‘Paris in your Glass’ Wine Tasting Tour

When exploring Paris, most visitors focus on iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, or the Louvre. But tucked away in the hills of Montmartre is a story that many overlook—the history of wine that helped shape this charming neighborhood and, in turn, Paris itself. The Clos Montmartre ‘Paris in your Glass’ Wine Tasting tour offers a rare glimpse into this grape-laden past, combining scenic walks, historic sites, and a tasting experience that promises more than just wine.

What we love about this tour is its unique blend of historical storytelling and interactive wine tasting—plus, the chance to see a real vineyard within city limits. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that appeals to wine lovers and curious travelers alike. One potential drawback for some might be the uphill walking involved, as Montmartre’s cobbled streets and stairs can be a challenge for those with limited mobility or tired legs. Still, for those who enjoy a scenic climb and a touch of local history, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This tour is especially ideal for visitors who want a more authentic, less touristy look at Paris—those interested in culture, history, and wine blended into one experience. It’s perfect for travelers with moderate physical fitness who aren’t afraid of a bit of uphill walking and who prefer guided walks to standalone tastings or big group tours.

Key Points

• Unique combination of vineyard visits and wine tastings within Paris
• Rich historic context linking Montmartre, wine, and Gothic architecture
• Charming, scenic walk through one of Paris’ most picturesque neighborhoods
• Expert guides providing engaging anecdotes and educational insights
• Includes a visit to the celebrated Clos Montmartre vineyard
• Tour length of about 2 hours 20 minutes to 3 hours offers good value

A Detailed Look at the Tour

First Impressions and Meeting Point

The tour begins at Église Saint-Pierre de Montmartre, a building dating back to Roman times. Standing on the steps, you’re greeted with an immediate sense of history—this church was built atop a Roman temple, with ancient columns recovered from the original shrine. Visitors love the grandeur of its centuries-old stones and the story it tells about Montmartre’s layered past. From here, the walk naturally flows into the neighborhood’s historic streets.

Exploring Montmartre’s Hidden Corners

Your guide takes you through the village’s winding, cobbled streets, passing landmarks like La Bonne Franquette, a historic artist’s café famously painted by Van Gogh, and the Commanderie du Clos-Montmartre, once a water tower now hosting one of Paris’ few wine fraternities. These stops aren’t just photo ops—they’re windows into Montmartre’s vibrant artistic, literary, and cultural life. The guide shares tales of Montmartre’s bohemian days, making history lively and memorable.

Scenic Walks & Cultural Highlights

The tour includes a walk past Le Moulin de la Galette, the windmill-turned-café associated with traditional galettes (a type of brown bread). The story of the windmills connects back to the neighborhood’s rural past, before it became Paris’ artistic hub. As you stroll, you’ll notice a small park, Square Suzanne-Buisson, where a vine-draped entrance hints at the neighborhood’s vinicultural roots. Here, the guide unpacks the varieties of grapes used in wine production and how they contributed to Paris’ history.

The Vineyard: Clos Montmartre

The highlight is a visit to Vigne du Clos Montmartre, Paris’ most famed intra-muros vineyard. Although small—covering just a few hundred meters—it’s a living relic of a time when Montmartre was covered with vineyards. We loved the way the vineyard’s history is narrated from the museum gardens of the Musée de Montmartre. From the parapet overlooking the vineyard, you get a charming view of the city and the vines, feeling transported far from the urban sprawl.

The Tasting Experience

The tour concludes with a wine tasting in one of Place du Tertre’s well-regarded wine bars. The tasting lasts about an hour, providing time to savor local wines, learn about their characteristics, and hear about the different grape varieties and winemaking styles. The guides are praised for their knowledge and approachable instruction, making the experience accessible even for beginners.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the quality of the wine. One reviewer exclaimed, “Jeffrey is a blast with so many fun anecdotes,” praising the guide’s storytelling skills. Others appreciated that the tour offers “a terrific way to explore Montmartre and its wine history,” and called the tasting “superb.” The consensus is that this experience offers great value—a combination of scenic exploration and educational tasting that is more than just a superficial sip.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

The tour lasts roughly 2 hours 20 minutes to 3 hours, making it a comfortable, not overly long activity. The cost of $122.17 per person includes the vineyard visit and the tasting, which many see as a fair price given the insider access and historical insights. The tour is suitable for visitors with moderate physical fitness, as Montmartre’s streets are hilly and involve some uphill walking, including stairs.

Starting at 3:30 pm, it’s timed to catch the late afternoon light, perfect for photos and enjoying the views. The group size is capped at 110 travelers, but in practice, you’ll likely be part of a smaller, more intimate group—especially if you book in advance, which is recommended, as this tour is booked an average of 50 days ahead.

Booking is simple with a mobile ticket, and the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, adding peace of mind.

The Value of This Experience

While $122 might seem steep for a two-hour activity, it’s important to consider what’s included—vineyard access, guided storytelling, and a quality tasting. Compared to standalone tastings or mass-market tours, this offers an authentic glimpse into Montmartre’s wine culture and its connection to Parisian life. The combination of historical sites, scenic walks, and educational tastings creates a well-rounded, memorable experience.

Who Will Love It?

This tour is perfect for history buffs, wine enthusiasts, and culture seekers who want to experience Montmartre beyond its touristy surfaces. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy walking, small-group atmospheres, and learning about local traditions. If you’re after a relaxed, educational, and scenic afternoon—this tour fits the bill.

The Sum Up

The Clos Montmartre ‘Paris in your Glass’ Wine Tasting tour provides a rich, authentic look at Montmartre’s vinicultural roots combined with a scenic walk through one of Paris’ most picturesque neighborhoods. Guided by knowledgeable storytellers, you’ll gain insights into how wine shaped Parisian culture and architecture—plus, savor some carefully chosen wines in a convivial setting.

This experience is a good fit for travelers who appreciate history, authentic local stories, and quality wine. It offers a unique perspective that goes beyond the usual tourist stops, making it a memorable and educational afternoon. The combination of vineyard visits, scenic views, and engaging guides makes it a worthwhile addition to any Parisian itinerary—if you’re up for a bit of uphill walking and want a taste of the city’s rural past within its urban heart.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It’s geared toward adults who can appreciate wine and the historic walk. Minors or non-drinkers might not find the tasting segment as engaging, but the walk and sights can still be enjoyable.

How long does the tour take?
Expect around 2 hours 20 minutes to 3 hours total, including walking, sightseeing, and the tasting.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers vineyard visits, scenic walks, and the wine tasting session.

Is there any physical activity involved?
Yes, the tour involves uphill walking, cobbled streets, and stairs, so moderate fitness is recommended.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Église Saint-Pierre de Montmartre and ends at Place du Tertre, near a well-known wine bar bistro.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it recommended to book in advance?
Absolutely, as the tour is popular and booked on average 50 days ahead.

Is the wine tasting included?
Yes, the tasting is part of the tour, and many reviews highlight the quality of the wines served.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

If you’re looking for a way to combine scenic exploration, history, and wine in Montmartre, this tour is a well-paced, educational choice that offers a genuine taste of Paris’ vinous past.