10 Reasons Why Bordeaux is the Ultimate Wine Destination

Love food and wine? What about art, history and UNESCO World Heritage Sites? The incredible region of Bordeaux, France offers all of the above and much more. Here are 10 reasons that Bordeaux is the ultimate food and wine lover’s retreat.

1. Blend of country and city

Enjoy the rich culture of a European city AND the lovely countryside. A trip to this region is truly a great bang for the buck - a little city and a little country make for a trip as perfectly balanced as its wines (clever, I know). 

Bordeaux is a vibrant, world class destination in its own right. Recently beautified and transformed after a restoration, the city is absolutely gorgeous. Magnificently restored buildings and monuments highlight the stunning architecture. A clean and efficient trolley system makes getting around the city easy and fun.  From Michelin-starred restaurants and family bistros to locally owned boutiques and finely curated museums, the city of Bordeaux is alive with an infectious energy. 

Just a short drive outside the city transports you squarely in the preeminent wine region in the world. With vineyards, hills, rivers and fresh ocean breezes, it doesn’t take long for the countryside to seduce your soul. You may choose to stay in the charming village of Saint-Émilion, or perhaps at a wine estate if sleeping among the vines is more your speed.   Even if you decide to stay in the city, you can hire a driver for day trips into wine country.

2. Easily accessible 

Bordeaux is home to a fantastic international airport, making travel to the region hassle-free. The Bordeaux-Merignac Airport is only 8 miles from the city center and easily accessible by bus, taxi, Uber or private car. And thanks to the high speed TGV train, the city of Bordeaux is only 2-hour train ride from Paris. It has never been easier to spend a few days in the City of Lights and zip down to wine country. With so many direct flights to and from Charles de Gaulle airport, you can be sitting in a Bordelaise sidewalk café in no time! 

3. Variety of world-class wines… and beer? 

Although you may first think of red wines in Bordeaux, the region actually grows many different grapes producing wines with distinct and diverse styles.  The left bank of the river is renowned for its powerful, muscular Cabernet-based blends while the right bank is known for more lush Merlot and Cabernet Franc-based blends.  But Bordeaux makes incredible white wines as well, particularly blends of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. The regions of Sauternes and Bergerac specialize in perhaps the highest-regarded sweet wines in the world. In addition, Semillon grapes are used to make Crémant de Bordeaux, sparkling wines made in the Méthode Champenoise, and producers from all over the region are offering delicious rosé.

Bordeaux also has a thriving craft beer brewing culture that continues to grow.

4. Grand chateaux

The grand chateaux of Bordeaux were built to impress and they truly are a magnificent sight. Spanning a range of styles from medieval to contemporary, these imposing estates represent years of history and tradition. You can visit chateaux with modern, state of the art technology while also watching horses gently plow the vineyards. Take a tour of an ancient cellar with dusty bottles dating back to the 1800’s and ride to the top of a steel tower for stunning panoramic views. Each estate has its unique story to tell - with delicious wines to match!

5. Wine caves

The vineyards of the right bank sit atop an impressive tunnel of underground limestone quarries. Take a journey down the steps to discover these ancient cellars - some two stories deep! Get up close to the terroir for a whole new perspective on what makes Bordeaux wines so special.

6. Stellar cuisine

With its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, it is no surprise that oysters, mussels and other shellfish rank among the most popular foods in Bordeaux. But this is a meat-loving region at heart, and entrecote a la bordelaise, a rib steak with a rich red wine sauce, is a favorite (just don’t ask for it well done!). 

No visit to France would be complete without indulging in deletable breads and pastries. In fact, the French baguette recently earned UNESCO World Heritage status! Bordeaux is known for its version of the iconic macaron, but its true claim to fame is the canelé, a little cake with a caramelized exterior and a rich custard center flavored with rum and vanilla.

With Michelin starred restaurants, sidewalk cafes, family bistros, boulangeries and patisseries, you can anticipate cuisine as exquisite as its wine.

7. Wine museum

La Cité du Vin is a striking architectural site located in the heart of the city.  This unique cultural destination houses fascinating exhibits on the history of wine, immersing you in different cultures throughout the ages.  With hands-on activities, seminars, a restaurant and, of course, a wine bar, La Cité du Vin is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about wine.

8. Charming village of Saint-Émilion

The enchanting medieval town of Saint-Émilion is the crown jewel of the Bordeaux region. An 11th-century monolithic church carved out of a single block of limestone is an incredible sight. With underground cellars, cobblestone streets, local wine shops, sidewalk cafes and world-class vineyards, it is no wonder that Saint-Émilion has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

9. Distinct rivers

Rivers play an important role in the Bordeaux wine region. The Dordogne and Garonne Rivers flow into the Gironde estuary and serve as a boundary between the left and right banks. Humidity from the rivers creates the perfect condition for botrytis, or noble rot, which gives the sweet wines of Bordeaux their distinctive flavors. The rivers also moderate the harsh Atlantic climate allowing for a more hospitable environment for the grapes to grow.

Luxurious river cruises offer a unique way to explore different parts of the region - all with unpacking only once!   Click here to learn more about our upcoming river cruise groups.

10. Spas and wellness

If you are looking to relax and rejuvenate, you have come to the right place.  Enjoy a day at the spa, where you can experience unique Vinotherapy treatments based on antioxidant-rich grape seeds. Indulge in a massage among the vines or even have a soak in a wine barrel!  As for active pursuits - cycling is spectacular in Bordeaux.  You don’t need to be training for the Tour de France to enjoy a bike ride among the picturesque vineyards.  Whether you are looking for a week of rigorous cycling or just a fun leisurely day tour, you will have many options.   With a choice of road bikes, touring bikes and — my favorite — electronically assisted bicycles, there is a bike for everyone. Fishing, kayaking and canoeing are great ways to enjoy the rivers of Bordeaux. 

Bordeaux truly offers something for everyone - art, history, gourmet cuisine, the excitement of the city and the tranquility of the countryside - all in one visit.  It is this unique combination that makes Bordeaux the ultimate wine destination.

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