The grand cru wines of Burgundy are among the most coveted and expensive wines in the world. Most wineries in Burgundy offer at least a premier cru wine as part of a tasting, and they may also pour a grand cru or two. But it is rare to be able to taste several grand cru wines in a row.

The friendly venues below offer precisely that opportunity. These wine shops with tasting rooms charge reasonable prices, and because you pay for the tasting, there is no obligation for you to purchase a bottle.

S. Chablis

This bright and cheerful place in the heart of Chablis offers one of the best deals in all of Burgundy: tastes of four local grands crus for 14 euro. The good-humored owner, Arnaud, speaks perfect English and is happy to tailor a tasting to your palate. It was fascinating to try Chablis from four different grand cru vineyards — La Moutonne, Les Clos, Les Preuses and Vaudésir — ranging in age from 3 to 12 years old. The richness and force of top-quality Chablis never fail to amaze me.