Belmond Launches Wine Academy Tours of Burgundy, France

Belmond has launched what it is calling a "Wine Academy" in France.

The Wine Academy, which is exclusively for guests traveling aboard its Belmond Afloat in France fleet of luxury barges in Burgundy, can be added to a bespoke itinerary with activities led by a local expert who tailors the activities accordingly, from introductory level to those who are budding wine collectors.

Wine master, and Belmond Afloat in France’s resident expert, Pascal Wagner, leads the Wine Academy and is often referred to as a walking encyclopedia of oenology. Pascal has over 30 years of experience and grew up footsteps from the special Grand Cru vines of the region.

For example, throughout the cruise, an introductory session with 11 different wines during lunch at Chateau LeFlaive is arranged in the world famous village of Puligny Montrachet, followed by a blind tasting at Chateau Pommard, well known for producing award-winning Pinot Noir wines.

Other highlights include Cremant tasting, Burgundy’s own sparkling wine, and an optional hot-air balloon flight, across some of the finest vines spread over 230 hectares, for the ultimate birds eye view.

The Wine Academy is available for charter groups of four people or more, booking any cruise staying aboard Belmond Amaryllis, Belmond Hirondelle or Belmond Fleur de Lys, with various routes available along the picturesque Bourgoyne canals. The wine-focused activities offered as part of the Academy take place on three days throughout a six-night cruise.

Belmond Afloat in France offer tailor-made itineraries around Cote D’Or, France Comte, Saone, Provence, Valle du Rhone, Canal du Midi and Burgundy. The barges can accommodate between four and twelve passengers and cruises are offered on an all-inclusive basis with a complete crew including chef, hostess, captain and tour guide. Other activities available are cycling along the canal paths, visits to local Chateaux and markets, plus cooking classes.

A week’s private charter starts from £26,400 on an all-inclusive basis including private transfer - based on 4 people travelling on board Belmond Fleur de Lys.

The 2015 season begins on 29 March and ends on 18 October.

Prices for the Wine Academy start from an additional £700 per person based on four people in a group.