Wine culture has become hugely popular in recent years. The history of one of our favorite beverages goes back to the fifth century BC so there is a lot to explore for the enthusiast and keen drinker alike. France has been at the forefront of wine cultivation since Roman times and Bordeaux is its largest growing region. There are lots of great trips in the area and the best Bordeaux wine tours are easy to find and compare online.
The vast majority of wine produced in the area is red. Only about ten percent is white or rose. This is partly due to the soil and climate. The south west of France is a limestone region with well drained gravel soils. There are three major rivers which irrigate the land and replenish nutrients.
Producers on the banks of the Gironde river produce the most expensive, best quality wines in the region. The Medoc area is also extremely popular, that is situated in the left bank area. For a first trip it is probably a good idea to choose a tour which incorporates several areas to get an idea of the differences. For those familiar with the area travel companies can help arrange visits to specific wineries.
There is also a wine school in the city where visitors can take all sorts of classes. The most basic is a two hour introduction to tasting and the drinks of the area. This is a great idea for those who do not know much about wine before they start on a tour. However, if you want to get into more technical aspects of wine making there are two and three day courses where you can even try blending.
Winery tours usually take a couple of hours. There are many vineyards both large and small. The character of a visit to each is quite different. In a smaller one the owner will often give the tour and host the tasting. This can be extremely interesting as they are usually passionate and incredibly knowledgeable about their product. It is a privilege to taste something made by the producer and share their pride.
Before planning a trip be sure to check with an agent about when to visit. There are a few times of year when wineries are closed. In January they are usually occupied with blending and do not take visitors. The first week of April is also off-limits to non professionals. This is when the experts are in town and tasting the latest offerings. Every other year there is also Vinexpo which takes up all producers time.
Besides wine the area has lots to offer. The city is a World Heritage Site with beautiful architecture and lots of cultural activities. There are walking tours and plenty of museums to keep the visitor happy for days. It is possible to add on extra time before or after a wine package to enjoy the city and its surroundings
A typical wine tour package will include visits to a variety of wine producers, a guide, transport and driver, lunches, accommodation and often a class at wine school. Most operators also offer bespoke tours. This means for people who have an interest in a particular wine or type of grape they can choose which vineyards to visit. Travel agents can also arrange stay in local villages, spa trips, history tours and more.
The vast majority of wine produced in the area is red. Only about ten percent is white or rose. This is partly due to the soil and climate. The south west of France is a limestone region with well drained gravel soils. There are three major rivers which irrigate the land and replenish nutrients.
Producers on the banks of the Gironde river produce the most expensive, best quality wines in the region. The Medoc area is also extremely popular, that is situated in the left bank area. For a first trip it is probably a good idea to choose a tour which incorporates several areas to get an idea of the differences. For those familiar with the area travel companies can help arrange visits to specific wineries.
There is also a wine school in the city where visitors can take all sorts of classes. The most basic is a two hour introduction to tasting and the drinks of the area. This is a great idea for those who do not know much about wine before they start on a tour. However, if you want to get into more technical aspects of wine making there are two and three day courses where you can even try blending.
Winery tours usually take a couple of hours. There are many vineyards both large and small. The character of a visit to each is quite different. In a smaller one the owner will often give the tour and host the tasting. This can be extremely interesting as they are usually passionate and incredibly knowledgeable about their product. It is a privilege to taste something made by the producer and share their pride.
Before planning a trip be sure to check with an agent about when to visit. There are a few times of year when wineries are closed. In January they are usually occupied with blending and do not take visitors. The first week of April is also off-limits to non professionals. This is when the experts are in town and tasting the latest offerings. Every other year there is also Vinexpo which takes up all producers time.
Besides wine the area has lots to offer. The city is a World Heritage Site with beautiful architecture and lots of cultural activities. There are walking tours and plenty of museums to keep the visitor happy for days. It is possible to add on extra time before or after a wine package to enjoy the city and its surroundings
A typical wine tour package will include visits to a variety of wine producers, a guide, transport and driver, lunches, accommodation and often a class at wine school. Most operators also offer bespoke tours. This means for people who have an interest in a particular wine or type of grape they can choose which vineyards to visit. Travel agents can also arrange stay in local villages, spa trips, history tours and more.
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