Centred around the city of Bordeaux, the Bordeaux Wine Regions encompass several wine-growing areas throughout the Gironde department of Aquitaine. It’s the second-largest wine-growing region in the world and includes the Medoc and Graves areas on the left bank of the Gironde River and the Libournais, Bourg and Blaye areas on the right.
Things to do in Bordeaux Wine Country
Begin your visit in beautiful Bordeaux, a historic port city renowned for its UNESCO-listed Old Town, Gothic cathedral and magnificent Place de la Bourse. Delve into the world of wine at the ultra-modern Cité du Vin and browse the extensive collection of the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux, then experience a performance by the Bordeaux National Opera at the opulent Grand Théâtre.
Cellar door hop between the wineries that dot the left bank of the Gironde River where Cabernet Sauvignon is the predominant variety grown. Learn about the age-old traditions employed by winemakers at the Château Palmer and Château Margaux or discover the Roman history of winemaking in Graves, then visit the charming town of Pauillac.
On the right bank of the Gironde River, Merlot is the favoured grape, with some wineries also producing Sauvignon blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle. Discover the biodynamic cultivation methods of Château Coutet and explore the oldest wine-growing area of Bordeaux, the Blayais-Bourgeais, before visiting the UNESCO-listed town of Saint-Emilion.
Getting around Bordeaux Wine Country
Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport is a 20-minute drive from the centre of Bordeaux and has flights to destinations across Europe and North Africa. Regular trains connect from Paris, Toulouse and Nice to the Bordeaux railway station and buses travel throughout the city. Having your own vehicle is the most convenient way of exploring the Bordeaux Wine Regions.