Follow our journey on this map.

Day 41 began a mere 5 hours after we returned from Normandy…

An early morning start allowed us to quickly get from the condo across town to Gare de Lyon where we picked up the TGV to Dijon. The TGV is the high-speed train (the “bullet train”) that was super comfortable. We treated ourselves to upgraded seats so we could spread out some.

Knowing that we were going to be tasting wine most of the day, we grabbed some cheese and bread we purchased yesterday and created a picnic of sorts. Not long after leaving the station, we were travelling at nearly 180 mph and it was like floating on clouds. Some of our party were not impressed as evidenced by the napping. OK, maybe it was the 4 hours of sleep.

One and a half hours after leaving Paris we arrived in the city of Dijon. I knew nothing about the city except that I presumed that my favorite mustard comes from there. Dijon is the capital city of the historical Burgundy region in eastern France, one of the country’s principal wine-making areas. It’s known for its traditional mustard, vineyard tours, autumn gastronomic fair and building styles ranging from Gothic to art deco.

We met the guide and 2 other passengers and headed out to the countryside. The city turned from urban chic to robust vineyards in about 5 minutes. It was phenomenal to see. Throughout the drive(s) we were treated with historical facts, geography lessons relative to wine cultivation, and an explanation of the treatment of wine labels which is different from others.

The first stop was at a small cellar in the town of Fixin. As we got out of the van I noticed a unique vending machine: baguettes. Now I know this is where I belong!

We tasted 8 different wines with complete discussion of each one. It was a great location and I really appreciated the opportunity to taste a Grand Cru, Premier Cru, and Village wine from the same place. It put them into perspective.

From there we drove through the countryside again and learned about restrictions on how the grapes can be grown (Burgundy restrictions) before arriving in Beaune. The guide suggested a restaurant that was out of this world. The food was fresh, vibrant, and presented beautifully.

After lunch we saw a few more vineyards before stopping at a beautiful chateau in Aloxe-Corton. Here we tried 6 different wines that were very different from the last stop.

Because Mae and I have been traveling for these 6 weeks (and 2 more to go!) with just a rollaboard suitcase, we couldn’t buy anything but we took great notes!

From Aloxe-Corton we wandered back to the Dijon train station where the train departed exactly on time. The 90 minute ride back to Paris was devoid of conversation as most of us were asleep!

We needed to eat dinner and get to bed early so we tried the Italian restaurant right next door to the condo building. It was fabulous and just what we needed: heavy comfort food. See the photos and you’ll know what I mean.

Tomorrow is an “open” day in that we have nothing planned. Our list of stuff yet to do is Sacre Coeur, Montmartre, d’Orsay museum, Moulin Rouge (for David) and the Champs-Élysées. Tune in tomorrow to find out which 😊