Wine Walk & Tasting in Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Vines once covered much of Paris, and the wines produced here were celebrated throughout Europe for their quality and character. The modest vineyard of Saint-Germain-des-Pres is rooted in the same soil that nurtured Parisian wines during the Middle Ages, offering a rare opportunity to connect with the spirit of place in one of the city’s oldest and most distinguished quarters. This walking tour delves into the rich history of Parisian wine, exploring how the production and sale of wine shaped the city’s growth, economy, and culture over centuries. Guests will follow a guided route through the streets of Saint-Germain-des-Pres, learning about the Abbey Saint-Germain-des-Pres and the historic vineyards that once surrounded it, imagining the daily life and spirit of the Middle Ages while tracing the influence of wine on society, trade, and architecture. The tour also highlights the famous personalities who have called this quarter home, linking history, culture, and gastronomy in a seamless narrative that brings the area to life.

The experience concludes with a blind wine tasting featuring three carefully selected wines paired with seasonal vegetables, rustic fermented bread, and artisanal cheeses, allowing guests to savor the flavors that have long been part of Parisian tradition. Along the way, visitors gain insight into how wine was more than a beverage in medieval Paris, serving as a source of wealth, community, and cultural identity. This immersive tour combines history, storytelling, and tasting to provide a comprehensive understanding of Saint-Germain-des-Pres, connecting guests to its enduring heritage and culinary legacy. From learning about the abbey’s historic significance to experiencing the taste of local wines and traditional accompaniments, participants leave with a deeper appreciation for the role wine has played in shaping the character, economy, and culture of Paris throughout the centuries.