In the village of La Bussière-sur-Ouche – a short drive from Dijon – lies the picturesque Relais & Chateaux property of Abbay de la Bussière, a 12th-century Cistercian abbey that sits at the center of 12 acres of parkland. The ideal starting point for a wine-led excursion into the historic grape-growing region of Burgundy, this boutique hotel is offering the ultimate wine getaway. Throughout the summer, travelers can enjoy the best of Burgundy on a $54,000 wine experience for the ages.
Burgundy remains one of the most renowned wine regions not just in France but the world. Historic producers such as Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Domaine Armand Rousseau and Domaine Leflaive have helped to propel this corner of France into the stuff of winemaking folklore, and for good reason.
So revered is this terroir, top bottles from notable producers sell for thousands, but in a region like this, for every famous big-budget beast of a producer, there are ten hidden gems that only the locals know about.
This experience from Abbay de la Bussière offers visitors the opportunity to truly immerse themselves in the Burgundy way of life. But what exactly does a $54,000 wine trip to Burgundy involve?
Firstly the hotel and it’s certainly a special one. Included in the experience is a three-night stay at Abbay de la Bussière, a charming 12th-century abbey that provides both Gothic architecture and touches of Renaissance styling. This is set to be the visitors’ base of operations while exploring wider Burgundy.
One highlight of the experience will be the opportunity to enjoy a delightful lunch with renowned sculptor Paul Day. Known for collaborating with the royal family, Day’s other works include the famous statue The Meeting Place, an icon of London’s St Pancras Station, and the Battle Of Britain monument on the Victoria Embankment. During the lunch, Day, who lives in Burgundy, will take guests through some of his favorite local wines, providing that oh-so-useful insider information.
On one day, guests will head out into the countryside, with their own private driver to explore the vineyards of Burgundy. Visiting both iconic and up-an-coming vineyards, guests will stop for wine tastings and an intimate picnic in Beaune.
Food is set to play a big role in the experience, from decadent lunches, gourmet charcuterie and sampling the tasting menu at the hotel’s impressive bistro, it’s unlikely visitors will be heading home hungry.
One of the finest ways to get a lay of the land is by heading skyward and guests on this experience will certainly be getting a good glimpse of Burgundy. A scenic hot-air balloon ride will provide exceptional views across the vine-laden fields.
Finally, for those looking for an investment, those on the experience will receive a collectors selection of 2019 vintage Grand Crus wines from Domaine de la Romanée Conti, including the likes of Corton Charlemagne, Grands Echezeaux, Romanée Saint Vivant, Richebourg, and La Tâche.
At $54,000 it’s certainly priced at the luxury end, however, for those looking to experience everything Burgundy has to offer, this new experience from Abbay de la Bussière could be a real winner.