Bordeaux wine tour: 2 wineries (red & white wine)

Explore Bordeaux’s Hidden Wine Treasures in a 4-Hour Tour

This Bordeaux wine tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s lesser-known vineyards, combining visits to two distinct wineries in about 4 hours. Priced at $98.33 per person, the experience is designed for wine enthusiasts eager to escape tourist crowds and enjoy authentic, quality tastings. The tour starts at the Cité du Vin and includes visits to a certified organic estate in Pessac-Léognan and a region in Entre-deux-Mers, known for its scenic hills and diverse wines.

The tour is particularly suited for those interested in both red and white wines and eager to explore a variety of Bordeaux’s terroirs. With a maximum group size of 8, it offers an intimate setting, guided by a knowledgeable local. While it’s a half-day adventure, the focus on off-the-beaten-track estates provides an authentic touch that sets it apart from larger, more commercial tours.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $98.33 per person for approximately 4 hours.
• Two Unique Wineries: Visits to a certified organic estate in Pessac-Léognan and a vineyard in Entre-deux-Mers.
• Diverse Wine Tastings: Tastes at least 6 wines including both red and white varieties.
• Authentic Experience: Focuses on less touristy wineries, offering a genuine insight into Bordeaux’s terroirs.
• Expert Guidance: Led by a local Bordeaux guide who explains regional specifics and winemaking processes.
• Convenient Meeting Point: Starts and ends at the Cité du Vin, with air-conditioned transport included.

Starting Point and Logistics in Bordeaux

The tour begins at the Cité du Vin, which is a central and easily accessible location in Bordeaux. The guide welcomes the group there at 2:30 pm, and the journey kicks off with a 30-minute drive to the first winery in the Entre-deux-Mers region. This region is renowned for its diversity of wines and offers a picturesque setting, often called “Little Tuscany” due to its rolling hills.

At the end of the tour, around 6:15 pm, the group returns to Bordeaux, with the guide dropping everyone off at the original meeting point. The entire transportation is air-conditioned, making for a comfortable experience, especially during the warmer months.

Visiting the First Winery in Entre-deux-Mers

The first stop takes place in the Entre-deux-Mers region, famous for its varied wine production. The estate visited is in the heart of this scenic area and is a certified organic producer. The visit includes a tour of the facilities, where the guide explains the winemaking process, including a look at the vat room and barrel cellar.

After the walk-through, visitors enjoy a wine tasting of several wines of different colors, highlighting the region’s diversity. Expect to taste at least 3 wines at this estate, which may include reds, whites, or other styles, depending on what the estate produces. This stop provides a great chance to see organic winemaking practices and appreciate regional contrasts.

Exploring the Pessac-Léognan Estate

The second winery is located in Pessac-Léognan, a prestigious Bordeaux appellation known for high-quality reds and whites. The visit here is to a Grand Cru estate, where the group explores the facilities and learns about the estate’s winemaking techniques.

During this part of the tour, at least two wines are tasted—one red and one white—considered among the best in Bordeaux. The estate’s distinct approach and prestige give the experience a different feel compared to the first stop, focusing on refined quality and regionally renowned wines.

Tasting a Range of Bordeaux Wines

The tastings at both wineries showcase at least 6 wines in total, with a focus on variety and regional expression. The selection includes both reds and whites, offering a rundown of Bordeaux’s diverse wine styles. The organic estate in Pessac-Léognan provides a contrast to the more traditional estate in Entre-deux-Mers, underlining the regional diversity.

This aspect makes the tour particularly appealing for those wanting to sample different wine profiles and understand how terroir influences taste, color, and style.

The Experience and Pacing

The itinerary allows ample time at each estate, with 1 hour 30 minutes allocated for each visit and tasting. The driving time between locations is approximately 30 minutes, offering a relaxed pace without feeling rushed. The small group size ensures personalized attention and the opportunity to ask questions.

The tour is designed to balance exploration and tasting, giving participants a chance to learn about winemaking, see the facilities, and enjoy the scenic views of the Bordeaux countryside. Since the tour runs in the early afternoon into early evening, it suits those who prefer a half-day experience with some flexibility.

The Unique Charm of Off-the-Beaten-Path Wineries

What truly distinguishes this tour is its focus on less touristy wineries, avoiding the often crowded and commercialized estates. The organic estate exemplifies the region’s commitment to sustainable practices, while the second estate offers a glimpse into prestige winemaking without the typical tourist hype.

The scenic landscape of Entre-deux-Mers—with its rolling hills and vineyards—adds to the overall appeal. The diversity of wines tasted underscores Bordeaux’s multifaceted character, making this tour an excellent choice for curious wine lovers eager to discover hidden gems.

Practical Tips for Participants

Travelers should bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated during the tasting session. The tour includes a guide and transportation, but lunch is not included, so plan accordingly if you prefer a meal beforehand. The group size of up to 8 ensures a small, intimate experience, ideal for anyone seeking personalized attention.

The tour is suitable for most adults of legal drinking age, and no prior wine knowledge is necessary. The availability of the tour is high, with bookings typically made 70 days in advance, and free cancellation is offered if plans change.

Who Would Enjoy This Bordeaux Wine Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts who want to go beyond the usual Bordeaux wineries and explore authentic, off-the-beaten-track estates. It suits those interested in organic wines, diverse styles, and regional contrasts. The relaxed pace and small group setting make it a good fit for couples, small groups, or anyone seeking an intimate, educational wine adventure.

While the tour emphasizes quality and authenticity, it doesn’t include lunch or souvenirs, so travelers looking for a more comprehensive day might combine it with other activities. Its affordable price and focused itinerary make it an attractive option for those who value depth over breadth.

Bordeaux’s Hidden Wine Regions Revealed

By visiting Entre-deux-Mers, the tour opens a window into a lesser-known part of Bordeaux, often called “Little Tuscany”. This region’s hilly terrain and diverse soils produce a wide variety of wines that differ significantly from Bordeaux’s more famous appellations.

The organic estate demonstrates sustainable practices and offers a distinct taste profile, while the Pessac-Léognan estate showcases prestige winemaking. This combination provides a well-rounded view of Bordeaux’s geographic and stylistic diversity.

Final Thoughts on the Bordeaux Wine Tour

This 4-hour tour delivers a focused, authentic experience for wine lovers seeking to explore less crowded wineries in Bordeaux. The visits to two different estates—one organic and one prestigious—highlight the region’s versatility.

While the itinerary is manageable and the group small, the main strength lies in the quality of the wineries visited and the variety of wines tasted. The scenic drives and informative guidance enhance the overall experience, making it a worthwhile choice for anyone eager to discover Bordeaux’s hidden wine treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour requires no prior wine knowledge, and the guide explains the winemaking process along the way.

Are white wines included in the tastings?
Absolutely, at the Pessac-Léognan estate, both red and white wines are tasted, with at least 6 wines sampled in total.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a bottle of water for hydration, as no bottled water is included. The tour does not include lunch, so plan accordingly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility if needed.

What makes this tour different from others in Bordeaux?
Its focus on less touristy wineries, organic practices, and regional diversity makes it stand out, offering an authentic and intimate experience.

How accessible is the meeting point?
The tour starts at the Cité du Vin, a central location in Bordeaux, near public transportation for easy access.

How many wines will I taste?
You will sample at least 6 wines, including both reds and whites, providing a broad taste of Bordeaux’s offerings.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized and relaxed experience.