Explore the Best Wineries in Bordeaux

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Blind Tasting In Saint Emilon

Travel Guide to Bordeaux Wine Region

Bordeaux wine region is located on the Atlantic coast, on right and left bank of the Gironde Estuary. Benefiting from the location and the climate Bordeaux vineyards here produce exclusive wines. Worldwide recognized for its harmonious, premium quality wines, Bordeaux is a major player in the international wine market. Moreover, the city of Bordeaux is one great wine capitals famous for its historical heritage and outstanding gastronomical scene.

Check out wine tastings & tours in Bordeaux.

Explore Bordeaux wine region with the help of our travel guide:

Bordeaux wines and where to taste them

Medieval villages and towns

Culinary specialties of Bordeaux

Bodeaux Vineyards

Everything You Need to Know about Bordeaux Wine Region

Garonne and Dordogne Rivers devices Bordeaux Wine Region into two main parts, the Left Bank and the Right Bank, and the territory between two rivers called Entre-Deux-Mers. Bordeaux includes 57 appellations(AOC) and 38 sub-regions, which makes it the largest appellation wine producer in France. The main grape varieties used in the production of world-known Bordeaux wines are Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, often accompanied by Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Bordeaux wines produced of these red varieties are globally recognized as “Bordeaux Blend”. Even though 90% of the wine produced here is red, there as well exists a white Bordeaux blend - its primary grapes are Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon. Muscadelle is also involved in this blend in some cases.

Where to Stay in Bordeaux

From chic urban hotels exuding contemporary elegance to rustic châteaux tucked away in the idyllic countryside, Bordeaux offers an array of stays that cater to every discerning traveler's preferences.

Hotel Madame

Distinguished by its distinctive features and tailored to meet your every need, the Madame Hotel stands as a tranquil sanctuary nestled in the bustling center of Bordeaux.

Le Palais Gallien Hôtel & Spa

Located in the heart of Bordeaux, Le Palais Gallien Hotel & Spa immerses you in a sophisticated and polished realm.

Château Pont Saint-Martin

The Château Pont Saint-Martin situated at the heart of the Pessac-Léognan Classified Growths. Its immediate neighbors include the distinguished Châteaux Malartic-Lagravière, Fieuzal, and Domaine de Chevalier.

Château Toulouse-Lautrec Malromé

Once the cherished residence of the renowned painter Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, this 16th-century estate, nestled in South Gironde, serves as an immersive gateway into the captivating realm of Lautrec.

Check out other hotels in Bordeaux Wine Region.

This is what you shouldn't miss when visiting Bordeaux!

- Visit La Cité du Vin museum to discover the history of the wine civilization

- Discover the Bordelais vineyard participating in the Médoc marathon

- Have lunch with your family in the village of Saint-Emilion

- Wander along the Dune du Pilat the tallest sand dune in Europe

Bordeaux Wine Region Map

Bordeaux Wine Map

Right and a Left Banks of Bordeaux - Must-Visit Distinctive Territories

As already mentioned in the intro, Gironde Estuary divided the Bordeaux wine region into right and left banks. This division also defines the style of Bordeaux blends and splits Bordeaux into distinctive territories that are must-visit while you are traveling in the region. The Left bank area includes famous appellations such as Médoc, Graves, Margaux, and Pauillac, where Cabernet Sauvignon is the predominant grape variety whereas on the Right bank you will find Saint-Émilion, Pomerol, Libournais, and Bourg and Blaye with the dominance of Merlot.

Grape Varieties of Bordeaux

Bordeaux_Red_Grapes
White grape varieties of Bordeaux wine region

Fruity Wines of a Right Bank of Bordeaux wine region

The right bank of the Bordeaux wine region includes renowned wine appellations such as Pomerol and Saint-Emilion. Wines produced here unlike left banks are more Merlot-based, with Cabernet-Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Petit Verdot used in blending. Bordeaux wines from the right bank are more fruity, lower in acidity, and tannins. Visiting Saint-Emilion is a must for everyone travelling to Bordeaux. Later you will discover what makes this little village so special.

Wines of the Left Bank - Peppery & Tannic

The wines of the Left bank (particularly, Medoc and Graves wine regions) display fruit aromas and flavors of berries as well as dark cherry, vanilla, and coffee beans. The Bordeaux wines here are spicier and have also peppery flavors and bold tannins. The major factors, which influence the characteristics of these wines, are soils and the favorable climate of the territory (clement winter and hot summer). Cabernet Sauvignon is a primary grape in the blend of the Left bank wines. It is also responsible for the powerful characteristics of the wine.

Medoc gathers many renowned appellations as well as Grand Crus - French wine classification level given to the wineries of the most superior grade with the highest excellence Bordeaux vineyards.

''Bordeaux has a very unique and specific way of trading wine, which makes it traditional and modern at the same time.''

Mattia Antonio Cianca - Local sommelier about Bordeaux

Images - Vertical
Castle in Bordeaux, Medoc, France

The Most exclusive wines in the world - Grand Crus of Médoc

  • Château Latour - Historical wine estate rated as a premium cru under the 1855 Bordeaux classification. Château Latour terroir is expressed in the elegance and depth of its wines. That's why it is rated as one of the most expensive wines from Médoc.
  • Château Haut-Brion is one of the oldest wine estates of this area, located in the town of Pessac, a few kilometers away from Bordeaux. Estate produces some of the best white Bordeaux blends in the world. Haut Brion Blanc wine is the world's most expensive dry white wines.
  • Château Haut-Brion is one of the oldest wine estates of this area, located in the town of Pessac, a few kilometers away from Bordeaux. Estate produces some of the best white Bordeaux blends in the world. Haut Brion Blanc wine is the world's most expensive dry white wines.
  • Château Margaux has been bringing excellence with its Bordeaux wines for hundreds of years already. Wines that are meant to be aged and to be enjoyed with food. What makes these wines so special is a special sophisticated character of Margaux terroir expressed in wines.
  • Château Lafite Rothschild has a fascinating history that goes back to 1234. The wine estate is an honourable member of the five châteaux referred to as the ‘first growths’. And they produce Bordeaux wines that with exceptional finesse and elegance that are great as young but also have significant ageing potential.
  • Château Mouton Rothschild - Since 1924 estate brings Artists such as Salvador Dalí, Francis Bacon, Picasso and Miró designed labels for bottles. Château Mouton Rothschild gives complete freedom of creation around the theme of the vine and the pleasure of drinking. The project underlines the exclusivity of each and every bottle produced here.
Bordeaux Chateau
Château Margaux, France

Don't miss this lifetime opportunity to visit the most exclusive wine-making Châteaus in Bordeaux! However, keep in mind, that Bordeaux is not only about high-end wine-producing Châteaus. There are around 8000 Châteaus around the region and you can find high-quality Bordeaux wines in every price segment.

Something Else?

Sauternes - High Quality Sweet Wines from the left bank

Many believe that Bordeaux produces only red wine blends. However, Sauternes, a famous village, situated in the South West of Bordeaux, is known for its high-quality sweet white wines.

Crossed by the Ciron, the vineyard benefits from the combination of heat and humidity, that's why the bacteria Botrytis Cinerea appear. This bacteria allows the development of mushrooms that causes shrivelling grape berries, which results in increased sugar and flavor content and is responsible for the characteristic flavor of Sauternes wines. Sauternes wines shine with desserts as well as it expresses their brilliant character with foie gras.

The grape varieties used in the production of Sauternes wines:

Bordeaux Vineyards (2)
Vineyards around Bordeaux, France

Entre-Deux-Mers - "Between Two Seas"

Entre-Deux-Mers means "between two seas/tides" but actually, the territory lies between the Dordogne and Garonne rivers.

Located in the South East of Bordeaux, Entre-Deux-Mers occupies 7000 hectares, which makes it the largest winemaking area of the Bordeaux.

The huge diversity of soils in this wine area allows the production of red and white wine. Here, they produce dry and sweet white Bordeaux wines from Sauvignon and Sémillon grapes. To produce high-quality red Bordeaux wines, wine-growers use the Merlot.

Entre-Deux-Mers wines are well-balanced and crispy with pale golden color. Normally, they are consumed young but they can be aged well thanks to Sauvignon Blanc's potential.

Soil types: sand, clay, grave, clay-limestone.

The most used grape varieties: Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon.

Similarity with other famous wine regions

Even though Bordeaux is a unique region mainly known for its full-body red wines, the curious wine enthusiasts can find in Bordeaux wines some common aromas with wines from Italian red wine region - Chianti. For example, when harvested early, both Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon from Bordeaux have strong red currant notes - the same happens with Sangiovese wines from Chianti. Red wine lovers often choose Chianti and Bordeaux as their top priorities for wine tasting and tours.

Explore Cities and Medieval Villages of Bordeaux Wine Region

Bordeaux benefits from great weather and beautiful landscapes with a huge historical heritage

discover medieval villages and towns where there are many cultural activities for couples, families or friends. Impossible to be bored!

City of Bordeaux

World's best city to travel to in 2017, according to lonely planet.

Bordeaux's renovation began in the 90' thanks to the current mayor, Alain Juppé. After cleaning facades, reorganizing quays, and the tramway placing, the town transformation was amazing for several years.

Bordeaux
Panoramic view of Bordeaux, France

Walk along the Garonne on the quays and pass in front of Place de la Bourse and admire its reflection on the Miroir d’Eau. Turn at the Quinconces to stroll in “Triangle d’Or” and admire the Grand Theatre and its architecture (don’t hesitate to go inside).

Next, if you’re a shopping lover, explore Europe's largest pedestrian street: Sainte Catherine Street, where you will discover major Franch chains, design shops, cafes, and restaurants. So, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy your break. Visit the district Saint Michel, where you can take a walk in the alleys of the cosmopolitan district. You will be fascinated by the old architecture of this part of the city and then together with it, you can discover the super modern building of the museum “La Cité du Vin”, must visit place in Bordeaux and perfect for families, couples or friends who want to explore the culture and civilization of wine. You will end up your visit with a glass of wine on the terrace of the museum.

Bordeaux is wealthy for its wine bar culture, stroll around the old part of the city and explore the wine scene, where you will be able to taste not only local but also international wines.

The Medieval Village Saint-Emilion

Saint-Emilion is famous for its huge vineyards, the quality of wines, architecture, and cultural heritage. The village hosts thousands of wine enthusiasts every year because of its wines. However, not everybody knows that Saint-Emilion was the first vineyard written on the World Heritage List by UNESCO in 1999 for having an outstanding universal value. And we don't talk only about Bordeaux wines and vineyards here. The town has incredible architecture and a great history.

Saint-Emilion (5)
Saint-Emilion, France

 

Come, discover the largest monolithic church in Europe, the catacombs, Chapel of Trinity! Saunter in the village in a couple, or with your family and friends to discover its amazing landscapes and visit surrounding Bordeaux vineyards!

 

After exploring the heritage of Saint-Emilion, you can visit wineries in the surroundings of the village!

Château La Croizille - winery

TIP!

Château La Croizille offers a wide diversity of experiences: workshops, wine tasting events, picnics, you can even have accommodation at the winery.

 

 

Entry of the winery at Château Coutet in Languedoc-Roussillon

TIP!

Visit winery that produces Bordeaux wines for more than 400 years. The 14th generation of Beaulieu family is pleased to welcome you to Château Coutet and share their passion and knowledge of terroir with you.

 

Arcachon - The Town of The Four Seasons.

The town is separated in 4 “towns”, and each “town” name one of the four seasons.

Arcachon was created in 1857 by the imperial decree of Napoléon 3, its renown increased rapidly, and became the town of the four seasons. Indeed, the town is separated into 4 “towns”, and each “town” name one of the four seasons. Explore four seasons of the city and have a diversity of experiences that this oceanside city has to offer.

  • The Summer town gathers seafront and Arcachon city center where you can find the famous Casino, hostels, restaurants… 
  • The Autumn town presents fishing and nautical activities so, you can walk along with the marina/fishing port (the third largest of France).
  • The Winter town is located on the Arcachon Dune and It’s a place where you can spend family time and admire the view from the Belvédère.
  • Finally, Spring town is a more residential district. You can find the famous Abatilles spring.
Arcachon
Dune du Pilat, Arcachon, France

DON'T forget to visit the tallest Sand dunes in Europe, Dune du Pilat. You will admire incredible views over the ocean and Arcachon forests. It will definitely be the highlight of your holidays!

Discover the finest Bordeaux Wine Tour Guide and embark on unforgettable Guided Wine Tours in the heart of Bordeaux.


Gastronomy in Bordeaux Wine Region

Discover Culinary Specialities in Bordeaux. The location as a port and a trading city has affected the peculiarities of its gastronomy. Bordeaux wine region's gastronomical scene is pretty diverse. You will find everything from high-end gourmet restaurants and bistros to wine bars and marketplaces, where you can taste authentic food and products. Here you will find the three most characteristic dishes that represent the region the best.

La Lamproie Bordelaise - Fish Served In Its Own Blood

The old Aquitaine recipe from Middle ages.

La Lamproie Bordelaise
La Lamproie Bordelaise - Traditional fish dish from Bordeaux

Not a pleasant story to be told how they prepare this dish. However, it is considered to be a delicacy in Atlantic coastal areas of France as well as in Spain and Portugal. Between February and March, the fish come back at Gironde and Dordogne confluence to lay their eggs. This is when fishermen catch Lamprey, which is the only fish to bleed alive.

the preparation of the dish starts with extracting blood from the fish, which is later mixed with red wine to prepare the sauce. Then, Lamprey is cooked with leeks and added the sauce. You can serve it with garlic croutons, fresh pasta or boiled potatoes.

Caviar from Michelin-Starred Chef's Selection

Caviar d’Aquitaine is one of the most famous caviar in the world and part of the Aquitaine gastronomy. The Caviar comes from sturgeons raised in high-quality rivers and ponds. That’s why the Caviar d’Aquitaine is recognized by Michelin-starred chefs.

The best way to taste Caviar is to eat it alone to don’t change its amazing flavour. Avoid taking the Caviar with silver or stainless steel spoon to don’t oxidize it.

Taste it with dry white wine, brut or extra brut champagne, or fresh vodka!

The Famous Confit de Canard

Confit De Canard (1)

 

First, the aim of this recipe was to conserve the meat and protect it from the air thanks to the grease. Then, it became a real traditional recipe from the south-west of France.

After choosing Landes's duck, put the wings and thighs aside as well as the grease.

During 24 hours, the duck is covered with salt to dry up it before to be cooked. The meat is cooked for 2 hours in order to be tender. It can be tasted directly or it can be kept in its grease and to eat later.

South Treat - the Canelé

The canelé is a vanilla and rum-flavored delicious little cake with a tender heart and crispy, caramelized crust. The Canelé's origins are still uncertain but the legend says it was invented by nuns of the Annonciades' convent. Yet, during the last archaeological digs, any cakes pans weren't found.

This pastry disappeared during several decades to come back in force during the '20s. There is some trouble with the cake's name: how many "n" need the word? The answer: only one since 1985 with the creation of canelé's association.


Are you convinced to visit Bordeaux wine region? Start planning your holidays, check out the list of unique wine tastings & tours in Bordeaux!

Local sommelier Mattia Antonio Cianca tells us about Bordeaux Wine Region

Q: For Bordeaux, what is the very best with this wine region compared to other regions in France?

A: Many factors make Bordeaux unique. You can fly directly from many destinations and land close to the city center and vineyards. There are numerous water activities available: cruises, bars, restaurants, clubs, and activities like "yoga boats". You can also try beach walks, surfing, sunsets, and amazing oysters!

Bordeaux has a very unique and specific way of trading wine, which makes it traditional and modern at the same time. While Bordeaux is famous for its unique red wines, there is a great diversity of light and easy-drinking whites as well. For example, Entre-Deux-Mers, more structured and serious whites from Pessac-Leognan, soft and juicy Merlot-based reds from the right bank, fuller-bodied with long-term potential from the Medoc, and elegant dessert wines from Sauternes and Barsac.

Q: If you visit Bordeaux for the very first time, which grape variety should you try first?

A: I guess it will depend on the season, and of course, famous blends from the region. In summer, I would go for Sauvignon-Blanc-based wine. In winter, I would focus more on the Cabernet-Sauvignon-based blend.

Q: Is there any particular food dish that you have to try when you stay in Bordeaux?

A: The most obvious choice would be Steak and chips. It sounds simple, but restaurants are focusing on high-quality meat that is perfect for the wines of the region. The Les lamproies à la bordelaise, a fish from the Gironde, an old recipe cooked for centuries. The lamprey is cooked in a red wine sauce and cut into pieces. Canelé, a small cake from Bordeaux and part of Aquitaine’s culinary heritage. Caramelized color and a soft heart, scented with vanilla and rum.

Mattia Antonio Cianca

Would you like to read a bit more about Bordeaux wine and food? Have a look also at our blog post about Bordeaux food and wine experiences!


Insider Tips about Bordeaux

Where to eat in Bordeaux?

L'entre deux verres

  • Address: 8 Place Aristide Briand, 33360 Quinsac, France
  • Menu: French cuisine
  • Specialty: Oysters

Recommended by Château Vieux Mougnac

La Table de Pavie

  • Address: 5 Place du Clocher, 33330 Saint-Émilion, France
  • Menu: French modern cuisine
  • Specialty: Aiguillette de Saint-Pierre cuit au beurre truffé

Recommended by Château de Pressac

Osteria Le Panzanelle

  • Address: 95 Cours du Général Leclerc 33210, Langon, France
  • Menu: French modern cuisine
  • Specialties: Seasonal ingredients, Foie gras de canard 

Recommended by Château Les Remparts

Where to stay in Bordeaux?

Château Hotel Grand Barrail

  • Address: ROUTE DE LIBOURNE, D243, 33330 Saint-Émilion, France
  • Facilities and services: Restaurant, Spa, Outdoor swimming pool, Fitness room, Sauna, Hot tub, Turkish baths, Meeting space

Chateau du Palanquey & Spa

  • Address: Château du Palanquey 2 Lieu dit Palanquey, 33350 Sainte-Colombe, France
  • Facilities and services: Spa, Indoor and outdoor pool, massage room, fitness space, wellbeing space

Rodin in Bazas

  • Address: 1 Allée Saint-Sauveur, 33430 Bazas, France
  • Facilities and services: Breakfast, suite bathroom, free car park and a terrace

What are the best wine bars in Bordeaux?

Vins Urbains

  • Address: 27 rue des Bahutiers, 33000, Bordeaux France
  • Wine menu: Regional, national and European wines

Chai Pascal

  • Address: 37 Rue Guadet, 33330 Saint-Émilion, France
  • Wine menu: French wines

 

La Barrique

  • Address: 32 Rue Maubec, 33210 Langon, France
  • Wine menu: French wines

 

What to do in Bordeaux?


Visit the Historic Monuments in Saint Emilion

  • Address: Rue du Château du Roy, 33330 Saint-Émilion, France

Tour at Roquetaillade Castle

  • Address: Roquetaillade, 33210 Mazères, France

Visit the charming town of Cadillac

  • Address: Cadillac, Girone, France

Frequently Asked Questions about Bordeaux Wine Region:

1. Where is the Bordeaux wine region located?


Bordeaux wine region is located in southwest France, north of the Aquitaine region.

The region extends around the rivers Gironde, Garonne, and Dordogne.

2. What are the most famous sub-regions and appellations in Bordeaux?


Bordeaux is divided mainly into three parts and within each are the main subregions:

- The Left Bank: Barsac, Médoc, Cérons;
- The Right Bank: Blaye, Côtes-de-Bourg, Saint Émilion;
- Entre-deux-mers: Bordeaux-Haut-Benauge, Sainte-Croix-du-Mont, and Sainte-Foy-Bordeaux.

There are 57 appellations in Bordeaux wine region, the most famous ones being Haut-Médoc, Pomerol, St-Emilion, Pauillac, and Sauternes.

3. What are the main grape varieties in Bordeaux?

The classical grapes flourish in Bordeaux. The main grape varieties for Bordeaux wines are Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec, Petit Verdot, and Carmenere.

4. What is the best wine to try in Bordeaux?


There are lots of incredible wines in the Bordeaux, but one that might be the crown jewel is the classic blend Cabernet Sauvignon - Merlot.

The red wines made with these grapes carry distinguished characteristics of the terroir, reaching astronomical values per bottle.

5. Where to taste the best wines in Bordeaux?

When visiting the Bordeaux wine region the best places to taste excellent wines are Château Le Grand Verdus, Château Haut Guiraud, Château Le Clos du Notaire, and Château Anthonic.

Discover Bordeaux With Local Wine Guides

Check out our local wine tour guides with their wine tour offers to have everything organized when visiting the Bordeaux wine region.

Displaying 1-10 of 10 local wine guides

Jesse K

Jesse K

THE PROBLEM SOLVER FOR WINE Howdy and Bonjour! Are you new to wine? Are you a connoisseur? Or are...

€245.00
Vanessa F

Vanessa F

A Buzz Tour is designed to be a fun and memorable experience for all of our guests. We believe...

€90.00
Jennifer - certified Wine guide

Jennifer - certified Wine guide

Come be like a local, tour with a certified wine guide who shares her love and passion of wine....

€95.00
Anne

Anne

Exploring Bordeaux with the very best!

€120.00
Bacchus Tours

Bacchus Tours

Offers tours in:
Bordeaux, France

If you want to meet locals and be guided by them, you're surely at the right place! We are...

€625.00
Bordeaux Uncovered

Bordeaux Uncovered

We are a couple working as state-licensed tour guides: Denitsa and Arnaud. We created the brand...

€315.00
Cécilia G

Cécilia G

Explorer of the Bordeaux vineyards in a 2CV and professional wine taster graduated from the...

€45.00
Frederic Borliachon

Frederic Borliachon

I do private wine tours since 2007, off the beaten tracks and also for the most pretigious...

€480.00
Guillaume ,  South-West specialist, from Bordeaux to San Sebastian

Guillaume , South-West specialist, from Bordeaux to San Sebastian

Madame, Monsieur, I am Guillaume. Born and bred in the South West of France, I grew up surrounded...

€195.00
Guillaume D

Guillaume D

Offers tours in:
Bordeaux, France

Being passionate about classic cars and wines, I founded Bordeaux Classic Cars in 2018. I love to...

€400.00

Map of Wineries in Bordeaux

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Subregions in Bordeaux

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