Not only are wineries adapting and improving their facilities to welcome visitors and wine enthusiasts, but also, increasingly, companies are appearing on the market that specialize in creating itineraries designed according to each client’s preferences.
In Europe, where language can be a barrier, it is becoming common for oenophiles to opt for this service to have a complete experience.
Sommelière Marina Giuberti, owner of the wine store and wine bar Divvino Marais, in Paris, has been offering specialized winery tours since 2013. With more than 17 years of experience in the area and sommelière training in France, she has valuable connections with several producers, facilitating visitors’ access to exclusive places, such as Philippe Pacalet, in Burgundy, and Jacques Selosse, in Champagne, which are not open to the public.
Photo: sommelière Marina Giuberti and producer Sébastien Bobinet, Domaine Bobinet, Loire. Credit: Disclosure
According to Giuberti, the most popular regions for wine tourism are: Burgundy, Champagne and Bordeaux. The most popular itineraries, known as “Wine Day“, include day visits, departing and returning to Paris, exploring regions such as Champagne, northern Burgundy or Bordeaux; or more extended options, such as “Wine Week“, which allows the customer to explore up to three wine regions.
With a group in the famous producer Ganevat, Jura region. Credit: Disclosure
Marina acts as a guide on all visits, translating conversations with producers for customers and helping to conduct tastings. Her in-depth knowledge allows her to explain in detail the entire wine production process, from planting the grapes to bottling. Furthermore, Marina always negotiates for iconic wines to be part of the tasting experience.
The journey with Divvino Marais begins before even arriving at the winery, with Marina meeting visitors for an introduction to French culture, the regions and producers to be visited, providing a real lesson included in the itinerary.
Group of customers, oenophiles, with producer Frédérique Le Prince, in Burgundy. Credit: Disclosure.
Five types of tours are offered, all with high-standard transportation and a driver, as well as a sommelier from the Divvino team. The main focus is on small producers, but a visit to a large producer is also included, allowing visitors to compare different experiences.
Divvino takes care of all the details, from scheduling hotels and restaurants to tasting moments with the producer, accompanied by cheeses and charcuterie, making each moment truly memorable.
Group at the Conté cheese factory, in Jura. Credit: Disclosure
Marina highlights that each season in France offers its own beauty and particularity, making wine tourism a charming experience throughout the year, except in August, when the harvest takes place.
A distinguishing feature of Divvino is that children are always welcome on its wine tourism trips. For those who are planning a trip to France or want to know more about the itineraries available, simply contact Marina by email [email protected] or via WhatsApp +33 6 63 31 83 80.