A teacher with a difference. This is how you would describe Cristina Otel, director and teacher for 8 years at Burgundy Wine School in Beaune.

Originally from Romania, she fell in love with the wines of Bourgogne when she arrived in France at the age of 17. With a long list of wine diplomas under her belt, she set off to work in renowned vineyards in France and Australia, before switching to teaching. Cristina’s style is far from formal. The lessons are relaxed and focus on techniques, covering the wine terroir of Bourgogne, with an emphasis on the Côte de Beaune and Côte de Nuits. Given your level of knowledge, we recommend you try out the private lessons (for 1 to 2 people). Each session begins with an instructive lesson then moves out into the terroir to study the different characteristics of the terroir in situ. And the theory is, of course, interspersed with tastings. One piece of advice: you can always call in advance to ask them to prepare a short and personalised training session.

Tips nearby:

L'Écrit'vin: In the centre of Beaune. High-quality bistro style restaurant. Parisian atmosphere with a literary-cafe feel. Homemade food using high-quality produce. Classics of French cuisine: homemade quenelles of pike, beef bourgignon, veal head... Excellent wine list.

L'Ermitage de Corton: Chorey-les-Beaune, 3km from Beaune. Charming **** hotel with 13 rooms and suites. Intimate and authentic atmosphere. Period parquet floors, stone, ceilings and antique furniture. Panoramic terrace overlooking the vines. Outdoor swimming pool. Hotel awarded Vignobles et Découvertes status.