Bordeaux is a city in southwest France that serves as the capital of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine French region. Sitting on the Garonne River makes the city a stunning destination for a serene break from traditional French charm and history. For centuries, Bordeaux has been synonymous with some of the world’s best wine production, and it plays a great role in the creation of wine that is distributed from the city to the rest of the world. For wine lovers who are ready to amble along history-ridden streets and embrace winery knowledge and expertise, it’s a break guaranteed to wow!
Here is a guide for everything you need to know regarding wine in Bordeaux, pre-departure.
Dubbed the ‘wine capital of the world’, the Bordeaux region offers a truly unforgettable experience for wine enthusiasts eager to learn more about the production of this globally loved drink. Visit iconic wine regions scattered across the city and distinguish the best destinations for a variety of wines, from robust reds to rediscovered whites. Médoc is infamous for sauvignon-based blends, and a variety of château properties are home to elegant wineries where you can get a glimpse of the traditional production techniques and how history has shaped them today. Drive through the wine route here, past great grand estates and luscious vineyards of greenery and grape growth.
Meanwhile, Saint-Émillion is a UNESCO World Heritage Site of cobblestone streets and historic monuments. Known for robust Merlot-based reds and some of the oldest vines in the city, there are a variety of great mansion châteaux to be visited here too. Head to Château Cheval Blanc for tasting sessions of the exceptional blends and meanders throughout the beautiful landscapes. This region is equally home to the Bordeaux Wine School, which is a great way for travelers to learn as much as possible about winemaking techniques and characteristics from sommeliers. Combine guided tours with tasting your way through the extensive collection of great wine districts and pairing up the drinks with local French cuisine.
While a wine tour in the South of France can be done at any time of year thanks to the variety of attractions on offer, each season in the calendar can offer distinct events to enhance a wine-tasting venture. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect from a visit during each season:
There is a vast collection of reasons why luxury wine tours in Bordeaux are the perfect way to vacation. Utilize a local expert to guide you through historic regions before restful nights in historic Margaux or Saint Julien. If you just want a day tour, that’s widely available too. Spend one day in any diverse region across the city, from Medoc to St. Émilion. Enjoy exclusive lunches where you can also learn the significance of specific cuisine to pair with the wines and discover the significance of the most renowned châteaux. From walking tours to biking extravaganzas, the range of opportunities is endless for travelers to build the best wine tour. Uncover hidden treasures and gain the most exclusive insight into the world’s best wine production. It’s a no-brainer!
Also dubbed a ‘pearl of Aquatine’ thanks to its stunning façades that line cobblestone streets and vibrant culture. The whole city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its unique blend of history, art, nature, and gastronomy. If the perfect trip for you also includes non-wine drinkers, the city has a vast variety of other ways to enjoy its heritage and ambiance. Head to Place de la Bourse for an iconic European square presenting quintessential charm and classic French architecture. This square sits around the infamous ‘Water Mirror’ which is the world’s largest reflecting pool. La Cité du Vin is not only an immersive wine museum but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the whole culture of the city and how it came to be today. Spend days just strolling through the city streets to take in true French quintessence.
Packing for France ultimately depends on the time of year and nature of your trip. Summer breaks should include lightweight clothing items and shoes that are still comfortable for ambling in. Fashion lovers among travelers can embrace traditional French chic clothing for evening dining and wine indulgence. Research what previous visitors have taken and tailor a trip’s packing list to how luxurious you want it to be. Don’t forget to save some extra room in the case for take-home mementos!
Wine touring in Bordeaux provides some of the most world-class environments for grape growth and tipple production. Gain great knowledge of wine's significance on France as a whole and immerse yourself in traditional French culture. Bordeaux wine tours, await.
