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Monday, September 15, 2025

Popes, Saints, Kings and French Wine: A Journey through Champagne, Burgundy, and the Rhône Valley

I recently met Church historian and sommelier Steve Weidenkopf who is leading a curated pilgrimage blending sacred history, daily Mass, and world-class wine tasting across Paris, Reims, Dijon, and Avignon titled Popes, Saints, Kings and French Wine: A Journey through Champagne, Burgundy, and the Rhône Valley.

Explore Notre Dame, venerate the Crown of Thorns, and walk through medieval monasteries and cathedrals. Along the way, enjoy tastings in Champagne, Burgundy, and Châteauneuf-du-Pape—all enriched by Steve’s deep knowledge of Church history and Catholic wine tradition.  

The dates are November 5th - November 13th 2026, so anyone interested has a full year to prepare. As for all curated experiences, the price may seem high ($4,399 - Price per person, double occupancy) but includes hotel accommodations, most meals, luxury motor coach, local guides, and more. 

For those in the Washington D.C. area, there will be an information meeting October 23rd, 7pm, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church and follow Capstone Vineyards for another possible information session.

ITINERARY


Day 1: Thursday, November 5 - Depart USA

Begin the pilgrimage with independent overnight flights to Paris, France.


Day 2: Friday, November 6 - Arrive in Paris

Arrive in the City of Light and meet the dedicated French Tour Manager. Visit the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral to venerate the Crown of Thorns, then witness the stained glass of Sainte-Chapelle and explore the historic Conciergerie. Gather for a welcome dinner and overnight in Paris.


Day 3: Saturday, November 7 - Paris

Celebrate Mass at the majestic Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Visit the Chartreuse store and enjoy a guided walking tour. Continue to the Chapel of the Miraculous Medal and the nearby St. Vincent de Paul Chapel. The afternoon offers time to explore Paris at leisure—perhaps the Eiffel Tower, Napoleon’s Tomb, or the 

Arc de Triomphe. Overnight in Paris.


Day 4: Sunday, November 8 - Reims | Dijon

Travel to Reims to celebrate Mass in its grand cathedral. Visit the Basilica of St. Remi and its museum, followed by a champagne tasting at a renowned maison. After a group lunch, continue to 

Dijon for overnight.


Day 5: Monday, November 9 - Dijon

Begin with Mass at Dijon Cathedral and a tour of the Ducal Palace. Visit the historic Château du Clos de Vougeot and enjoy a wine tasting at Château de Pommard. Evening at leisure and overnight in Dijon.


Day 6: Tuesday, November 10 - Cluny | Beaune | Dijon

Journey to Cluny Abbey, once the spiritual heart of medieval monasticism. In Beaune, celebrate Mass at the Basilica of Our Lady and visit the famed Hospice. Conclude with a wine tasting before returning to 

Dijon for the evening.


Day 7: Wednesday, November 11 - Avignon

Depart for Avignon, stopping en route for wine tastings in Ampuis and Tain l’Hermitage. Celebrate Mass upon arrival. Evening at leisure and overnight in Avignon.


Day 8: Thursday, November 12 - Avignon

Celebrate Mass at the Basilica Sainte-Perrie. Explore the Palais des Papes and the Pont d’Avignon. Visit the historic Châteauneuf-du-Pape and enjoy a tasting at Château La Nerthe. Gather for a special farewell dinner and overnight in Avignon.


Day 9: Friday, November 13 - Return to USA

Depart for Marseille Airport for return flights home.

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