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Where is Bordeaux?
The port city is located in the Southwestern region of France. Including its satellite towns and suburbs, Bordeaux is the center of Bordeaux Metropole. This metropolitan area is the sixth-largest of France and is the wine capital of the world. Bordeaux has a major influence on the world's wine industry though no wine production-related activities are done within the city limits. The region brings in about 14.5 billion euros annually through its wine industry.
Bordeaux wine tours
Various wine tours are conducted through the main city of Bordeaux France to the surrounding wine growing and producing regions. These day trips take you through the beautiful world of vineyards and various chateaus where you get the chance to explore and taste the various unique kinds of local wines.
Every now and then in your everyday life, you come across wines produced in this region, but in these Bordeaux wine tours, you have the chance to get to know about the details of the process and taste the wines from their origin.
Proper wine tasting etiquette in France
While going for Bordeaux wine tours, there are certain things that you should keep in mind to follow the proper etiquettes and to enjoy your experience at the fullest.
- First of all, dress properly. You might be going to spend a lot of time walking so your shoes must be comfortable enough to help you with that. Wear a cute and casual outfit, e.g. Jeans with some light summer top. As there is going to be a lot of wine tasting and spitting, so avoid wearing white.
- Get to know about the wine terminologies that will help you in your tour. Take notes of everything in your own language because after some time you will start forgetting and mixing up the information. Take a pen and notepad with you in case you are not provided with one.
- Ask questions. That will make your tour more fun and informative. Never consider any question to be lame or useless. Your hosts have all the information about their wines so they will be happy to guide you in all aspects.
- Then comes the tasting technique. Never hold your glass by the bowl but the stem. Otherwise, you will warm up the drink with your hand's temperature. Now sniff the wine, swirl, sniff again and then taste. Keep it in your mouth for a while, spreading evenly to give you the accurate taste and aroma.
- Spit or swallow the wine. It is better to spit after tasting because if you start swallowing all of them you will get drunk in no time and will lose all the fun.
- Never come empty stomach for tasting. Crackers, water, and other items might be presented to you during your trip. They are not to be eaten as lunch substitute but are given so that you could clear your palate with a sip of water or a little bit of the cracker.
- Don’t carry a huge tote or heavy bag or jewelry as you might end up buying a few or more bottles of classy wines. So, you will have to carry them all the way back.
Other popular wine regions in France
Bordeaux France is a big name when it comes to wine. The area offers some of the finest quality wines not from France but from all over the world. The Boudreaux wine tours give you insight into this precious destination.
But it will be unfair if you consider it to be the only place in France that produces excellent quality wines. Other regions in the country are also worth trying and have one of their kinds of local wines. Let’s have a look at these places and what special they have to offer.
1. Champagne
The only region of the world to produce sparkling white wines of its name, Champagne, follows strict traditional rules to prepare the treat. That is why it is the only region in the world to produce this celebration of wine. The chalky soil and dual unique climate of the region with a combination of ocean and continental touch, influence the production and gives it a unique taste.
Traditional techniques are used to make this delicious treat from Chardonnay grapes, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir. The region consists of various wine trails like Reims and region, Marne valley, coteaux vitryats, etc. but the best among all it the Venue de Champagne of Epernay, as it is home to some of the most famous houses of the region like Dom Perignon.
2. Burgundy
Also known as Bourgogne, this southeast region of Paris produce only three percent of the France wines but the quality and taste are what you will not find anywhere else. Comprising of limestone, clay and stone soil, this terroir produces some of the finest and most expensive wines in the country.
The centuries-old traditional process of winemaking is used to utilize the widespread Pinot Noir to make red wines while Chardonnay to make white wines. The region has about 400 different soil types so special care is given to the selection of soil type to grow the grapes. Make sure to pay a visit to the region's capital, Beaune that houses various unique and old wine houses.
The beautiful valley is famous for being one of the most stunning regions of France with its amazing castles, but that is not the only special thing about this place. The premium quality of Cabernet Franc, Chenin Blanc, and Sauvignon Blanc is utilized to prepare some of the finest white wines. The history of winemaking in Loire Valley dates back to the 1st century BC.
Spread from Nante to Sancerre, this 600 miles long valley is France’s longest wine route. There are more than 1,000 vineyards that are open for the public and all of them are worth visiting, but you can't go to all of them. Domaine du Closel, Vignobles Mourat, and Domaine des Gauletteries are few top listed ones.
4. Alsace
Located in the north-east of France, this charming town with its stunning landscapes spreads along the Rhine River. As it borders with Germany, hence, the wine culture of this region has a greater influence on German tradition.
Riesling, Gewurztraminer and Sylvaner are the most popular ones. The Alsace wines are fully fermented and thus differ from the German versions in having a drier texture and more rich and fruity flavor. The small region produces only 150 million wine bottles annually. Apart from the white dry and sweet wines, Alsace is also known for producing some rose and red wines as well.
5. Provence
Located in the southeast region, near the Mediterranean Sea, this place is the warmest wine region in France. This oldest winemaking region of the country is producing fine quality wines for around 2600 years.
The most famous is the rose wines made with Mourvedre grapes. This type is blended with Cinsault and Grenache grapes to give the awesome flavor. Make sure to include Château Pradeaux and Château de Roquefort on your list to try. Some vineyards also produce red, grey and white wines. Bandol is the area's most popular white wine that has been celebrated for its taste since ages.
Top activities in Bordeaux (other than wine tasting)
Though famous for its unique and delicious wines, Bordeaux France does have many other activities for the visitors other than Bordeaux wine tours and vineyards.
1. Explore the Bordeaux Museums
The city has more than 20 museums and each has a different theme. Some of them will surely grab your attention. Apart from the famous La Cité du Vin wine museum, there are others like the Natural History Museum, Maritime Museum, the Science Museum, Contemporary Arts Museum, and many more waiting to be explored. Be sure to check the timing as some of them might be closed for specific days or times.
2. Solve the Mystery of Escape Room
Choose from the five mysteries and utilize your detective skills to solve it by following a series of hints and clues. You need to solve the mystery to get out of the room. Your escape hunt guide will be watching you from outside and helps you with additional clues if you get stuck somewhere.
3. Splash in the Miroir d’Eau
The largest reflecting pool of the world is found in Bordeaux that was designed by Michel Corajoud and Jean-Max Llcora. The design of this water mirror was inspired by the Piazza San Marco in Venice. It is one of the most favorite spots of the locals as well as tourists to relax and splash in the cold water on hot summer days. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most photographed places in Bordeaux France.
4. Relax in Jordin Public
Inaugurated in 1746, this garden was originally designed in French style at the land that was not suitable to grow high-quality grapes. The purpose was to make an open space for the residents to relax away from the bustling city.
The garden was redesigned to give an English touch around 1856 that can still be seen. Enjoy a picnic or simply read a book in the garden. There is also a carousel and playground or children, and a small and free botanical garden behind the park.
5. Rue Sainte-Catherine
Have a trip to Europe's longest pedestrian shopping street. Since 1984, the street has been closed for the traffic and is a prime shopping destination in France. The street is lined with major French chains and retailers, as well as various cafes, boutiques, and restaurants. Pay a stop to the Place Saint-Project, the center point of the sopping route, take some rest and plan your further destination.
Top attractions in Bordeaux
With half of the city designated as the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the place is home to various significant pieces of classical and neo-classical architecture. More than 350 buildings in the region have been classified as historical monuments. The city is also known as the "Port of the Moon" because of its crescent-shaped meander on the Garonne River.
The ancient churches, 18th-century grandeur, historic museums, and vibrant neighborhoods are what make the city worth its name "The Pearl of Aquitaine". Most of the people come here for the Bordeaux wine tours but the region has much more to offer. From among the huge list of worth visiting places, here is a shortlist of the top destinations that you should not miss during your trip to Bordeaux France.
Cathédrale Saint-André de Bordeaux
Located at the heart of the city, the 12th-century cathedral has significant historical importance. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for being the place where Louis VII married a 13-years old Eleanor of Aquitaine. The building was stripped of its original decor during the French revolution, now most of the embellishments are from other buildings, except for the one wall from the original 11th-century nave. The place contains various stone-carved facades with sculptures from the Christ in Majesty, the Ascension, and the Last Supper.
Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux
This neoclassical building is considered to be the masterpiece of the famous architect Victor Louis that was built in 1780.restored in 1991, the theater houses the Opéra National de Bordeaux that has a permanent set up of 38 dancers, 37 choral artists, and 110 orchestra musicians.
The grand foyer inside the building with magnificent blue and the golden hall will leave you awestruck with its massive crystal chandelier, stunning frescos, and bright interior.
Even if you are not interested to see an opera performance, just went in to witness the marvelous interior. Visit the Place de la Comédie at night with its stunning portico and the sight of 12 statues of goddesses and muses.
Place de la Bourse
The majestic square was built by Jacques Gabriel in the early 1700s and became the symbol of Bordeaux with its inception. The open design of this plaza ended the walled city from the medieval era.
The three sides are covered with 18th-century buildings while the fourth side in its original design was separated from the Garonne River through railings. Now there is a shallow water feature known as Miroir d’Eau that makes the boundary between the stream and the square. This large pool with shallow water film makes the place more magical, specifically when it gets veiled by the mist.
La Cité du Vin
This ultra-modern and high-tech wine museum is something you will not find anywhere else in the world. This ten hours audiovisual tour is an interactive experience that engages your senses and you can spend a whole day at this place.
The tour makes you aware of the greatest wine regions of the world, the centuries-old traditional techniques, and procedures and sensory experience of them all. The 3000-square meter building has a 55-meter dazzling tower, at the top of which you get to taste the world class-wine before ending your tour. Apart from this permanent exhibition, the museum also holds temporary exhibitions and wine classes.
Pont de Pierre
Ordered by the famous Napoleon Bonaparte, this bridge was designed in 1817 by Claude Descamps, but completed in 1821. The most important feature is that it was the first-ever bridge designed and used to get across the Garonne River.
The 17 arches of the bridge, supported by the foundation piles, stand gracefully in the riverbed and are strong enough to withstand the strong river flow and water current. These 17 arches were originally intended to represent the 17 letters from the name of the emperor. You will notice white medallion at each span, which was also marked to honor him.
Porte de la Grosse Cloche
This 15th-century belfry with its twin conical roof was built for the Bordeaux town hall. This is one of the few original remaining fragments of the city from medieval times. The huge monument is built in the Palace of Porte Saint-Éloy, a 13th-century old gate.
The huge bell remains silent mostly throughout the year except for six times when it rings to commemorate the important events like VE day, Storming of Bastile, etc. You can have a look from below of the 7,750-ton heavy bell. The vintage clock was used to be part of the old city hall of the city.
Porte Cailhau
Located on the Garonne River banks, in the Place du Palais, this medieval gateway once serves as the main entry gate to the main city. The monument was constructed in 1945 to honor King Charles VIII's victory against the League of Venice.
Hence, it served for the city defense as well as a triumphal arch. The magnificent structure has a transitional design between renaissance and gothic architecture. There is an exhibit for the tools and materials that were used in the building of this 10 stories high gate.
Musee d'Aquitaine
The vast museum crystallizes the centuries-old history of this region of Aquitaine, with timeline charts from prehistoric times to modern-day. Started in 197, this museum gives a chance to explore the detailed French history out of Paris.
The museum is home to unique pieces of antiquity from old times, centuries-old stone carvings, cave paintings, Gallic treasure, and burials of many famous statesmen, philosophers, and authors that were important in the history of Bordeaux. If you are a fan of history, you can plan a complete day trip to spend time in this magnificent collection of arts and historic pieces.
Best time to visit Bordeaux
The beautiful vineyard region of Bordeaux France can be visited throughout the year. Every season has to offer something different for the old and young alike.
If you want to avoid huge crowds of visitors then spring is the time for you. The prices are low, the crowds are small and you can have the region all to yourself. The springtime, starting from March to June can be ideal to visit with pleasant weather, lower crowds and a huge opportunity to enjoy the region.
Avoid the start of April as that is the time for primer tasting and most of the chateau won't allow visitors for Bordeaux wine tours. By June the weather is still fine and the Bordeaux vineyards start getting the first bud burst and are filled with the powerful aroma of vine flowers. This might be the best time to visit your trip.
Most popular is the summertime, between June and August with most frequent Bordeaux wine tours. Most of the European and French crowds start arriving in Bordeaux France by late June and stay until early August. Autumn again brings peaceful calmness in the region with the tourist crowds gone back home.
The weather is still pleasant with little showers, signaling the approaching winters. Some of the wineries start harvesting in September and they won't allow any visits. By October, the weather is still fine and makes this time a good one to visit the vineyards. However, the region starts getting cooler by November, going through the end of February. Christmas time is again very popular among visitors as it shows a unique side of the region in the chilly atmosphere.
Bordeaux Reviews
V
Vernon
Nov 2024
Written on
A Taste of Southern France - Bordeaux to Toulouse
Erwin as our tour leader and the group were great company. The tour was a combination of visiting amazing places together with a foodie experience. Throughout the w...
B
Bryan
Oct 2024
Written on
A Taste of Southern France - Bordeaux to Toulouse
Excellent Leader(Erwin) Great food & wine (especially lunch at Arcachon)
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