Wine Travel in Bordeaux
Dear friends,
Welcome to Petite Wine Traveler, your weekly sip of inspiration — blending wine, travel, and storytelling, one glass at a time.
By Jamie Knee, Global Wine Communicator, Luxury Wine Travel Specialist, and Curator of Wine Experiences
This week, we find ourselves in the heart of Bordeaux, where wine isn’t just poured—it’s revered. From the stately châteaux of the Left Bank to the charming, sun-drenched terraces of Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux is the quintessential wine lover’s dream. But beyond the Grand Cru labels and storied cellars, there is a side of Bordeaux that’s fresh, playful, and full of adventure.
On my recent journey hosting a wine tour through Bordeaux, I was reminded that this historic region continues to evolve—offering luxurious, deeply immersive wine experiences that pair Old World elegance with modern sensibility. One moment I was sipping Cabernet in a centuries-old cellar, the next I was running barefoot through the Miroir d’Eau, laughing alongside children and cooling off beneath the mist. (Yes, shoes in hand, red wine in my soul.)
A Few of My Favorite Bordeaux Experiences:
1. Sipping Grand Cru in the Medoc
Touring the Medoc is like stepping into a wine fairytale. Châteaux like Margaux, Latour, and Pichon Baron offer not only history but opulence. Schedule a private barrel tasting and picnic in the vines — the golden hour light over the Garonne makes every sip feel cinematic.
2. A Day in Saint-Émilion
This medieval village is pure magic. After a walk through the winding cobblestone streets, settle in for a glass of Merlot-based red at a café overlooking the town square. Don’t miss the underground monolithic church and, of course, a visit to one of the local Grand Cru Classé estates for an intimate tasting.
3. Wine & River Cruise on the Garonne
Charter a boat or hop on one of the scenic river cruises and view Bordeaux from the water. Sip a silky red while gliding past the grand 18th-century facades of Place de la Bourse and the reflecting shimmer of the Miroir d’Eau. Bonus: The golden light just before sunset is unforgettable.
4. Indulging at La Cité du Vin
This is a wine museum like no other. Interactive exhibits, a stunning tasting room with a panoramic view, and educational experiences that even the most seasoned wine lovers will find enlightening. A must for anyone wanting to go beyond the bottle.
Jamie’s Travel Tip: Make your home base in the heart of Bordeaux city. That way, you can easily access the Left and Right Banks, while enjoying the city’s vibrant dining scene. One of my favorite nights? Cruising along the Garonne River with bubbles in hand, oysters on ice, and the elegant silhouette of Bordeaux city slowly floating by. Pure magic.
Bordeaux isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling. Sophisticated, soul-stirring, and oh-so-sippable. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned sipper, there’s always something new to uncork in this legendary region.
Until next week, pour something bold, toast to new adventures, and join me in celebrating the beauty of wine and where it takes us.
Cheers,
Jamie Knee, The Petite Wine Traveler
https://www.laciteduvin.com/en
