Bouchard Ainé et Fils

The basics

If you’re exploring the Burgundy wine region or following the Route des Grands Crus, a visit to the Maison Bouchard Ainé & Fils makes a great addition to your itinerary. Join a guided tour or tasting at the winery, such as the popular “Tour of the Five Senses,” an experience that includes a guided tasting of five different wines (red and white). A visit here, in the center of Beaune, can easily be combined with a walking tour of the walled Old Town.

Things to know before you go

• Bouchard Ainé & Fils produces red, white, rosé, and sparkling wines, but its most popular varietals are pinot noir and chardonnay.

• Tours are available in English and French—be sure to reserve your spot in advance.

• Plan to spend about an hour at the winery; tastings last about 45-50 minutes, after which you can purchase or order wines at the shop.

How to get there

The Maison Bouchard Ainé & Fils, the headquarters of the wine estate, is located along Boulevard Maréchal Foch in Beaune. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the Hospices de Beaune. There’s plenty of parking opposite the winery.

When to get there

The winery shop is open in the morning and again in the late afternoon, though holiday hours may vary. Wine tours and tastings are available five times a day by reservation only.

Visiting Beaune’s wine houses

While tasting tours will take you out to explore the surrounding vineyards, Beaune itself is also home to several prestigious wine houses where you can take part in a tasting without leaving the city. Visit Maison Champy, the oldest in Burgundy; explore the Caves Patriarche Père et Fils, the largest wine cellars in the region; then visit Maison Bouchard Père & Fils for a tasting in the beautiful Château de Beaune.