Les Caves du Louvre
Paris, Île-de-France
Located in the heart of Paris’s 1st arrondissement, Les Caves du Louvre are dedicated to all things related to French wine: tastings, workshops, and meals with wine pairings, among other special events. Even better, everything takes place in a historic private mansion that has been associated with wine since the days of French royalty: It once belonged to a wine merchant from the 18th-century court of Louis XV.
The basics
Les Caves du Louvre aims to introduce people to French wine in a less intimidating way, so don’t worry if you don’t know your bouquets from your vintages. A standard wine tasting will answer all your questions, giving wine aficionados (or merely the wine-curious) a glass of white wines and two reds, plus a tour of the cellars. A premium tasting includes a more in-depth experience, while perks like a bottle of Champagne or personalized photo can be purchased as special add-ons.
Looking to go even deeper on your wine journey? Aspiring winemakers can learn how to create their own wines during a hands-on workshop and tasting. An aperitif experience with French cheeses is another option as well.
Things to know before you go
- Book ahead if you’re interested in a sommelier-led tour in English, ideal for visitors who already have some basic wine knowledge, as reservations are required. You don’t need to book a standard multilingual guided tour in advance.
- If you tasted something you liked, pick up a bottle on-site. Wines are available for purchase.
- The venue can be reserved for private events.
- Prepare to taste wines from all around France. This makes a great primer on French wine if you plan on traveling to other regions.
How to get there
Les Caves du Louvre is in the heart of Paris. If you’re coming by metro, take Line 1 and get off at the Louvre-Rivoli stop. Otherwise, you can take RER line A or B to Châtelet-Les Halles. The cellars are within walking distance of many Parisian landmarks, including the Louvre.
When to get there
Les Caves du Louvre hosts tastings in the afternoons every day of the week, closing a little earlier on Sundays. The schedule varies depending on the specific experience, so be sure to check in advance. In general, the shoulder seasons and early summer are best for visiting Paris.
A secret vineyard in the heart of Montmartre
Visitors don’t have to venture far outside the capital to see wine grapes. Simply head to Paris’ hilly, bohemian Montmartre district. On Rue des Saules, the small Clos Montmartre vineyard has been supplying grapes to produce French wine for almost a century. While the vineyard isn’t typically open to the public, visitors can admire views from the street either independently or during a guided tour of the neighborhood.
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