A cruise aboard the Deluxe 12-passenger La Belle Epoque, or the First Class 8-passenger L’Art de Vivre takes guests on a tour through the world-renowned wine village of Chablis to the celebrated Domaine Laroche. It’s here, guests on either barge will enjoy a private tasting and cellar tour, whilst those aboard L’Art de Vivre will also enjoy a gastronomic lunch served by a private chef in the domaine’s dining hall. To find out what makes this experience so popular, read on..
Grapes and Gastronomy at Domaine Laroche
Vineyards, Viticulture and the Environment
If you’re a fan of Chablis wines, you’re sure to be impressed at Domaine Laroche. Your guide will talk you through the wine-making process as you leisurely walk through the ancient vineyards. It’s here that you’ll discover how the large-scale approach to sustainability is key in their wine production as well as its environment. Perfectly fusing the relationship between vine, soil, climate and environment – the domaine’s ethos is that if plants are well-balanced, treatments greatly reduce which means a natural pesticide and disease deterrent is created.
We have our own specifications relying on a few simple principles: no weed killers, no pesticides, no anti-botrytis treatments. These must help the vine and not disturb their general balance of the ripening of grapes
The Obédiencerie
During the tour, guests will have the opportunity to experience the Obédiencerie, dated at over one thousand years old. It was originally part of the monastery of St. Martin, and was where the monks developed the craft of winemaking in the Middle Ages all the way to the French Revolution. To this day, it remains in the same location for the aging of the wines. Some say that the Obédiencerie could tell the history of Chablis wines on its own. Here, guests will observe the 9th century cellars and the 13th century double press.
Time for Lunch
After a delicious wine tasting, guests who choose to cruise aboard L’Art de Vivre will then enjoy a spectacular four-course lunch served exclusively for the group by the private chef. The perfect way to end a fascinating tour of Chablis wines.
Inspired?
You can sample some of Chablis’ finest crus at Domaine Laroche aboard hotel barges, L’Art de Vivre or La Belle Epoque in France’s Burgundy region. Talk to our Cruise Experts today via the online booking form, to find out more about our unforgettable Burgundy cruises. Or order your free copy of our brochure today!