Winery visit / tasting in the vineyards, Mas des Escarades

If you’re planning a trip to the picturesque region around Avignon, France, a visit to Mas des Escarades offers a delightful taste of local winemaking. This private experience promises more than just a tasting; it’s an intimate journey into the heart of Provençal viticulture with panoramic views and authentic charm.

Two things we particularly love about this tour are its personalized nature—you’ll meet the winemaker face-to-face—and the spectacular scenery with views of Mont Ventoux, Montmirail, and Villedieu. These make for memorable moments that elevate a simple tasting into a special experience.

One potential consideration is that the tour lasts approximately an hour and a half, which is perfect for a quick yet meaningful visit—though if you’re a serious wine enthusiast, you might wish for a longer session. It’s best suited for those who enjoy intimate, relaxed experiences, and who want to combine wine tasting with impressive landscapes.

Key Points

• Private Tour: Only your group participates, ensuring a tailored experience.
• Authentic Interaction: Meet and taste with the winemaker himself.
• Spectacular Views: Panoramic vistas of Mont Ventoux, Montmirail, and Villedieu enhance the experience.
• Affordable Value: At around $23, you gain access to a memorable, quality tasting.
• Comprehensive Experience: Tour includes both the cellar and vineyard tasting.
• Flexible and Convenient: Mobile ticketing makes booking easy and straightforward.

The experience starts at a well-situated spot at 496 Rte de Roaix, in Buisson, just outside Avignon. From the outset, the tour feels personal—it’s a private setting where your group is the only one participating. The tour’s duration of about 90 minutes means you’ll have ample time to absorb the sights, sounds, and flavors without feeling rushed.

Visit to the Cellar – We loved the way the winemaker welcomed us into the cellar, sharing insights about their wine production methods. While details aren’t specified, a typical cellar visit in such settings usually involves seeing the barrels, tasting a few young wines, and hearing stories about the estate’s history and style. The personal touch of a winemaker welcoming guests is a highlight, as it provides not just tasting but also storytelling that brings the wines to life.

Vineyard Tasting with Panoramic Views – The highlight for many is the tasting in the vineyards themselves, set against sweeping views of Mont Ventoux and the Montmirail range. It’s an ideal setting for wine tasting—relaxed, scenic, and intimate. Expect to sample a selection of wines, with a focus on quality and authenticity. The reviews praise the wines as “very good” and “excellent,” which suggests that Mas des Escarades takes pride in offering wines that reflect their terroir.

Meeting the Winemaker – The opportunity to converse directly with the person behind the wines adds a layer of authenticity that many travelers seek. As one reviewer described, it was “a nice meeting with a passionate [winemaker] who really welcomed us”—a reminder that this is more than just a tasting; it’s a genuine connection to the craft.

The Experience’s Value for Money

At $23.27 per person, this tour offers remarkable value. For that price, you gain access to an authentic vineyard experience, a chance to taste well-regarded wines, and a beautiful setting. The inclusion of the cellar visit and vineyard tasting makes it more than a mere promotional event—it’s an educational and sensory journey through Provence’s winemaking tradition.

Practical Details

The tour is offered in English, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors. It’s a private tour, which means no crowds—just your group and the hosts. The activity can be canceled for free if made more than 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in planning. It’s weather-dependent, so clear days will enhance the scenery and overall experience.

You’ll need private transportation to reach the meeting point—public transit isn’t included. The meeting spot is easy to find, and the short duration makes it a good fit for those with a packed itinerary or a desire for a relaxed, focused visit.

Why This Tour Works Well for Travelers

This experience is perfect for those looking for a personalized, authentic wine adventure without the fuss of large group tours. It’s especially suited for wine lovers who want to meet the winemaker and see the vineyards up close. The panoramic views add a memorable visual element that complements the tasting.

While it’s not a comprehensive tour of the entire Provençal wine region, it offers a meaningful glimpse into one estate’s approach—an ideal stop for a day in Provence or as part of a broader wine-themed trip.

The journey begins at the specified meeting point in Buisson, where you’ll meet your host and start with a walk through the estate’s cellar. Here, you’ll likely see traditional wine storage methods and get insights into how their wines are crafted. Although specific cellar activities aren’t detailed, the reviews suggest a welcoming environment with passionate staff.

Next, you’ll be guided to a scenic vineyard area, where you’ll sample wines directly in the outdoors. The views of Mont Ventoux and Montmirail create an extraordinary backdrop—a rare chance to combine tasting with nature’s splendor. Expect to sample a selection of the estate’s wines, which reviewers have described as “excellent,” “very good,” and “enriching.”

The tasting session is led by the winemaker, who shares stories and answers questions—this is a rare opportunity to learn about the estate’s unique approach and local varietals. The interaction adds depth and authenticity that larger, impersonal tastings often lack.

The tour concludes back at the starting point, leaving you with a memorable experience and some quality wines to take home or enjoy in the moment.

Authentic Insights from Visitors

One reviewer called it “a nice meeting with a passionate [winemaker],” emphasizing the personal warmth. Another described it as a “great family visit,” appreciating the easy access and welcoming staff. Both reviews highlight the friendly atmosphere and high-quality wines, which are core to the experience’s appeal.

Final Thoughts on Value and Suitability

For around $23, you get a taste of Provençal wine culture with personal interaction and stunning views—a combination that’s hard to beat in this price range. The tour’s length and private setting make it ideal for casual wine enthusiasts, couples, or small groups seeking authentic, quality experiences.

It’s also flexible in its offerings, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving travelers confidence in their plans. The overall quality, based on reviews, suggests this is a reliable choice for those wanting a genuine connection to local winemaking without overdoing it.

Anyone interested in wine and scenic landscapes will appreciate this experience. It works well for travelers who enjoy intimate settings, authentic stories, and high-quality wines. If you have a few hours to spare and want to enjoy Provençal hospitality in a picturesque setting, this tour delivers.

In summary, the vineyard visit / tasting at Mas des Escarades is a charming, value-packed, and authentic way to connect with Provence’s wine culture. Expect friendly hosts, excellent wines, and unbeatable views—an experience that will linger long after your visit.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized visit.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable, relaxed visit.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll tour the cellar, enjoy a tasting in the vineyards, and meet the winemaker. Alcoholic beverages are provided during the tasting.

What languages are available?
The tour is offered in English, making it accessible for most visitors.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with no penalties.

Are children or non-drinkers allowed?
Most travelers can participate, but since it involves alcoholic beverages, non-drinkers should consider whether they’re comfortable with the tasting element.

Do I need transportation?
Yes, private transportation is not included, so plan to arrange your own way to the meeting point in Buisson.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or simply seeking a tranquil moment with stunning views, the Mas des Escarades tour offers a genuine taste of Provence’s winemaking charm—authentic, scenic, and great value.