You know the concept of Safari! It is the one where in African countries tourists are in contact with nature and fauna through a caravan. The concept improves with the photo safari where they can take souvenir photos of the animals.
In this type of expedition, the itinerary is all mapped out, as are the animals to be visited. Wine lovers have borrowed the idea from them, as have film buffs. So how does a wine route in France work? In this section, you will find out about the wine routes in France and the activities that take place there.
How does wine tourism in France?
Wine is a very popular commodity in France, whether by gourmets, French people, or oenophiles. Just look at the number of websites like winalist that cater for it. The websites mention it so much that it is the first step to a wine trip. It’s the easiest way in this digital decade. The route is often a red line drawn through the various vineyards of a region.
Apart from that, the wine route is a hunt reserved for the best oenophiles who know all the places. To make a wine route, subscribe to forums, wine fairs and Hachette wine guides. After that, all you have to do is decide on the means of transport to get to the end of the route provided.
Once the itinerary is known, a wine tourist will choose the most suitable means of transport to enjoy the trip. Firstly, consider a motorhome, which is the most common means of transport for this trip. Secondly, a limousine for hire if you want a glamorous trip. And don’t hesitate to try a cycling trip with your printed map and your backpack.
What to visit on the wine routes in France?
Going on a wine tour in France means visiting châteaux, which are often the preserve of old and traditionalist families. These families often organize tours that are led by ambassadors. During these visits, you can explore:
- The cellar,
- The cellars,
- the wine shops,
- Etc.
In these same chateaux, take in the various instruments that go into the wine-making process. These same instruments can be part of the ensemble that forms a cellar or a wine shop.
Apart from that, wine tourists can explore the competition of the best wines and vineyards, vintages. As these competitions are periodic, it will be necessary to adapt or take tours consisting only of these competitions. During these competitions, tourists have the opportunity to see the best wine houses in France compete.
If you do not want to participate in French regional wine competitions or shows, then opt for wine museums. Every locality has one, even if not in exact size. In these places, which are open almost every day, you can discover the history of the local wine.
Where to go to follow the wine routes in France?
The wine route in France may seem too long or too winding, so you have to choose a route from the lot. But how do you choose a route without missing out on the must-sees? You simply have to choose one of the most famous wine regions. Indeed, to talk about a wine route, these two are fundamental: the Alsace wine route or the Champagne route.
The Alsace wine route
With a total of 170 km of vineyards close together, you can drive the route region by region with your motorhome. However, in the town of Obernai, spend your time in the vineyards of a new kind. Taste a fine vintage in the Hummel Bernard house with food to accompany the vintage.
If you don’t drink enough, because of the long journey and also because of your palate, continue on to Ribeauvillé. Immerse yourself in medieval art with stories, images and especially sounds. In the oldest vineyards of Alsace, discover a fruity, fresh taste only in the “Bott frères” houses.
Apart from the white wines which are one of the main prerogatives of Alsace, think also of the pinot noir corners. They are rare, but exist as in the previous house, to taste it you just have to go to the reservation. If you decide to buy it, whether it’s white, black or rosé, your camper van will do the trick, bathing in the sunset.
The wine route in Champagne
The journey begins in France’s second wine capital. Épernay opens wide with its avenue de Champagne, which boasts some of the most prestigious wine establishments and houses. The city’s pride and joy is the world’s most famous sparkling wine (champagne). Thus, through houses such as :
- Moët & Chandon,
- the vineyard of Aÿ,
- Manoir Henri Giraud,
- La vallée de la Marne,
- Clos des Terres soudées,
- Etc.
In these places, you can visit in twos or threes and the price reduces as the number increases. In addition, each house offers a different experience such as tastings (through the vineyards, cellars, or shops), and lectures on winemaking.
Some tips for a successful wine tour in France
Apart from the preparations to find out which wine route is the most beneficial, the wine tourist should prepare his package. The latter consists of a backpack containing cameras, notepads, maps, and other items.
They should also make sure they have a wine catalog or the Hachette guide to targeting the wines. Furthermore, tourism should be done with your reservations and also your telephone to reach the wine houses.
Once you are in the vineyards, you must keep an open mind and not linger on the same wines. Indeed, sometimes the tourist wants to compare the different Chardonnays from each region. This can lead to a vicious circle of taste. To avoid this problem, it is advisable to taste different wines at each stop along the way.
To avoid getting a little tipsy, always remember the spittoon and make a habit of having one yourself. During the visit, it is quite cool to take wine, but it is necessary to measure the quantity in order not to overdose it. Also, you can ask questions to the guide to help you enjoy your tour.