The Wine Buff
The Wine Buff
5
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
About
The London Wine Competition has rated The Wine Buff St Emilion amongst the top ten wine retailers in all of France. No other wine retailer in St Emilion was included. There are over 44,000 wine retailers in France. The Wine Buff Experience enhances your visit to this amazing Unesco Heritage Site. Paddy O' Flynn, owner of The Wine Buff, has resided in St Emilion for over 35 years, Paddy owns his own vineyard in the region, and founded The Wine Buff® Ireland In 2000, which quickly became Ireland's premium wine supplier with over 15 outlets. Principal activities are producing and sourcing, artisanal wines from trusted vineyards. Pilar Manzano Sanchez-Ocana, our resident Oenologist/Biologist, offers one of the most informative, humorous, down to earth wine appreciation courses, available worldwide.
Suggested duration
< 1 hour
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What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
315 reviews
Excellent
308
Very good
5
Average
1
Poor
1
Terrible
0
Jack
4 contributions
Jul 2020 • Family
This is a fantastic wine shop in the centre of St Emillion. Paddy and Pilla are fantastic hosts and have an extremely well picked and rounded selection of wines for sale (and tasting).
They give honest, straight forward (and jovial) appraisals of their wines which makes for a really enjoyable experience. It’s great to chat with them through their understanding of the region and their expert knowledge of the production of wine.
Paddy took me and my brother In law on a visit to his vineyard which was a once in a lifetime experience!
Pilla even had a box of Lego for my son to play with whilst we had a tasting!
Congratulations Paddy and Pilla on your success with the Wine Buff which again I cannot recommend highly enough to anyone!
Thank you and speak soon,
Sláinte,
Jack.
They give honest, straight forward (and jovial) appraisals of their wines which makes for a really enjoyable experience. It’s great to chat with them through their understanding of the region and their expert knowledge of the production of wine.
Paddy took me and my brother In law on a visit to his vineyard which was a once in a lifetime experience!
Pilla even had a box of Lego for my son to play with whilst we had a tasting!
Congratulations Paddy and Pilla on your success with the Wine Buff which again I cannot recommend highly enough to anyone!
Thank you and speak soon,
Sláinte,
Jack.
Written July 30, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Jack, we thoroughly enjoyed our time together with Laura, Archie, Matthew and yourself.
Many thanks for your beautiful review.
Cheers, Paddy & Pi
Written August 3, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Damien
Ardee, Ireland5 contributions
Apr 2022 • Friends
We were delighted to see an Irish place in Saint Emilion, and the delight didn't stop there. Best to make a reservation, you will be greeted by a very friendly Cork man over the phone! With a reservation, we were able to engage with Pilar, a biologist who so expertly brought us through all the flavours and tastings of wines (though at a level that us non-bioligists could engage in!) It was truly fascinating to learn about the wines of the regions, and it was immediately obvious within a few minutes of being there, that these people know and love their wines. Although we had not time for the wine tasting in their beautiful venue (the beauty of the shop only increases as you continue inside. No spoilers!), we will definitely be revisiting to engage in these classes. We will be excited to revisit these experts who make both Ireland and Saint Emilion proud. Go raibh maith agaibh!
Written April 30, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Go raibh maith agat.
We very much appreciate your beautiful feedback. Looking forward to seeing you back here sometime soon.
Cheers, Paddy
Written June 10, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Robbie B
1 contribution
Jul 2022 • Couples
If good wine is about it’s character, The Wine Buff is overflowing. Paddy O’Flynn and his wife Pilar provide an experience like no other - interesting, tasty and doesn’t take itself too serious. The best thing we did during our stay in Saint-Emillion; which is saying something as we also got engaged that week.
Thanks again Pilar & Paddy, we’ll be back!!
Thanks again Pilar & Paddy, we’ll be back!!
Written August 1, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Many thanks Robbie, it was a real pleasure having you both here with us. We receive some truly great people here, ye are up there with the best. Congratulations once again on your engagement.
Cheers, Paddy & Pi
Written August 1, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
James F
4 contributions
Jul 2022 • Couples
We strolled past the wine buff and popped our heads in for a look. Unbeknownst to us the owner was Irish and we were immediately drawn in by enchanting tales of wine.
3 hours later we emerged with not only a deeper understanding of wine but a satiated palette and friendship.
Paddy and Pilar made us feel like we were tasting wine in the living room of their own home.
5 Stars
3 hours later we emerged with not only a deeper understanding of wine but a satiated palette and friendship.
Paddy and Pilar made us feel like we were tasting wine in the living room of their own home.
5 Stars
Written July 27, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your wonderful feedback James, Pilar and I are very appreciative of your very kind words. We really enjoyed our time with you both.
Cheers, Paddy & Pi
Written July 28, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
clonmult5
County Cork, Ireland7 contributions
Jun 2022 • Couples
Learning to breathe is kind of important. And breathing in and out through your nose is an amazingly rewarding technique. Not least because it teaches you to listen while you're breathing. And that's a good skill to have if you've ever lucky enough to come upon the wine buff in saint Emilion. Because there you will be entertained, wooed, impressed and most likely laugh from your belly up at the knowledge, stories and craic of both Paddy and Pilar...
So, knowledge; What both Paddy and Pilar don't know about wines, it seems to me, could be written on a postage stamp. What they thought myself and Sarah about wine and life in general is; whatever you consume, make sure it's good for you. And that includes their crusade for wines that are from the natural earth and are created to be as uninhibited as possible without the addeds. Likewise for their outlook on food and life.
I would highly recommend a visit to the experience that is The Wine Buff.
So, knowledge; What both Paddy and Pilar don't know about wines, it seems to me, could be written on a postage stamp. What they thought myself and Sarah about wine and life in general is; whatever you consume, make sure it's good for you. And that includes their crusade for wines that are from the natural earth and are created to be as uninhibited as possible without the addeds. Likewise for their outlook on food and life.
I would highly recommend a visit to the experience that is The Wine Buff.
Written June 27, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much Peter & Sarah for your exceptional review, we really appreciate your feedback and are absolutely delighted that you enjoyed your time with us here in The Wine Buff St Emilion.
Thank you also for the book you sent over, I am looking forward to reading it.
Cheers, Paddy & Pi
Written August 3, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Thomas S
1 contribution
Jul 2019
Six of us rambled into the Wine Buff after a nice lunch at the market square in St. Emilion not realising the treat we were in for. We spent the next hour or two sampling wines and trading stories of travel, wine, politics and more tri ghaelige and English. Paddy is a consummate host! That comes with his expertise knowledge and a love of what he does. A visit is a must if you are in the area Bought some great local wines then and have done so again since. Can't wait to go back!
Written May 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks Thomas, your review is greatly appreciated by Pilar and I. So happy that you all enjoyed your time with us.
Cheers, Paddy & Pi
Written June 10, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
James Kelly
1 contribution
Sep 2021 • Friends
We randomly ended up at Paddy O’Flynn’s shop yesterday afternoon while showing a visiting friend from Ireland around Saint-Émilion. We were instantly welcomed and ended up having an extremely genuine and organic conversation with Paddy. We chatted over a glass of wine about everything from the wine industry to life in France, business marketing, networking and life in general. Extraordinary experience in an unexpected place. Having been to other wine regions (i.e. Stellenbosch, South Africa / Sonoma, California / Tuscana, Italy) I can honestly say that The Wine Buff offers a unique yet authentic experience and a wealth of information. Perhaps the most incredible part is that the experience is completely unpretentious which can be quite rare in this region. Regardless of your level of expertise, whether you’re an expert in viticulture, a wine enthusiast or simply a lost tourist you’ll walk out feeling enlightened and full of good vibes. Thanks for the lovely afternoon, Paddy. We’ll be back for sure.
Warm Regards,
James & Marine (Grignols, France)
Aoife (Galway, Ireland)
Warm Regards,
James & Marine (Grignols, France)
Aoife (Galway, Ireland)
Written September 9, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks so much for your wonderful review guys.
It was a fabulous experience for me also, it is always very pleasurable to spend time with great people.
Best of luck with your new careers and relocations.
Cheers, Paddy
Written September 9, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Joseph Capella
World2 contributions
Jul 2022 • Friends
Excellent experience and a must if you're visiting St. Emilion! I'm only leaving 5 stars because the app doesn't have 10!!!
From the get-go we received a warm welcome by Pilar; she introduced us to their beautiful space, spoke to us about the elaboration of the wine and all of the care and considerations that goes with it.
She's very knowledgeable and passionate about wine (enologist and biologist) and yet carefully walks you through the flavours to develop your palate, gives you some background etc. aka even newbies will acquire an appreciation for the labour, the flavours and beauty behind each wine. It was a unique and personal experience you wont get in any other winery in St. Emilion, it's in my bucket list for my next visit! Thank you Pilar!
From the get-go we received a warm welcome by Pilar; she introduced us to their beautiful space, spoke to us about the elaboration of the wine and all of the care and considerations that goes with it.
She's very knowledgeable and passionate about wine (enologist and biologist) and yet carefully walks you through the flavours to develop your palate, gives you some background etc. aka even newbies will acquire an appreciation for the labour, the flavours and beauty behind each wine. It was a unique and personal experience you wont get in any other winery in St. Emilion, it's in my bucket list for my next visit! Thank you Pilar!
Written July 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for your amazing review. While I was reading I had goosebumps in my arms. I am truly grateful for your comments. It was a pleasure having you at The wine Buff. Enjoy your wines. Looking forward for your next visit. All the best. Cheers. Pilar
Written July 8, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
sheekats
mexico df2 contributions
Aug 2020 • Couples
Pilar an extremely passionate woman. You can see the passion in her work. She makes it her mission not to buy a wine but to find the wine you absolutely love. Friendly doesn't cover how she treats you. Best wine tasting ever not only recommended but is a must return!
Pilar muchas gracias por compatrir con nosotros tu pasión. Experiencia única e inigualable. De: K&K Para: P& P ;)
Pilar muchas gracias por compatrir con nosotros tu pasión. Experiencia única e inigualable. De: K&K Para: P& P ;)
Written August 31, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Muchisimas gracias por vuestro precioso comentario, K&K. It was a really pleasure to meet you and sharing our passion for Terroir Wines. Looking forward to see you soon. Enjoy your wines. Teneis unos amigos en St. Emilion para lo que necesiteis. Un fuerte abrazo.. P&P
Written September 2, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
David W
6 contributions
Jun 2022
We had a wonderful experience with Paddy and his charming wife Pilar. Their passion for wine, wine making, and wine tasting was exhilarating, and we learned so much.
They were so generous with their time, and we had a great chat with plenty of laughter. Not to mention the copious amount of wine we shared.
David and Nicholas
They were so generous with their time, and we had a great chat with plenty of laughter. Not to mention the copious amount of wine we shared.
David and Nicholas
Written June 26, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It was a real pleasure having you guys with us. Pilar and I are delighted that you enjoyed your experience as much as you have so generously shared in your fabulous review. Thanks again guys.
Cheers, Paddy & Pi
Written June 26, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Claim your listingThe Wine Buff - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about The Wine Buff
- The Wine Buff is open:
- Sun - Sat 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Hotels near The Wine Buff:
- (0.01 mi) Concept Appart St Emilion
- (0.02 mi) La Maison Colline
- (0.03 mi) Le Logis de la Cadene
- (0.03 mi) Logis des Cordeliers
- (0.03 mi) Maison de la Commanderie
- Restaurants near The Wine Buff:
- (0.01 mi) Chai Pascal
- (0.02 mi) La Table 38
- (0.02 mi) Le Bouchon
- (0.02 mi) Moulierac Mathieu
- (0.02 mi) Bar De La Poste
The Wine Buff Information
Excellent Reviews | 308 |
|---|---|
Very Good Reviews | 5 |
The Wine Buff Photos | 117 |