The Bordeaux wine region is nestled in an area along the Atlantic Coast and spanning both sides of the Gironde Estuary in southwest France. The region, with the sea breezes and fertile land is ideal for growing grapes used to make some of the most prestigious and delicious wines in France. Along with the globally celebrated wines, Bordeaux has some excellent sites to see and charming villages, surprising seaside towns and plenty of history. Let’s discover Bordeaux.

A Bit of The History of Wine in Bordeaux

Long recognized throughout the world for its premium quality wines the beautiful region of Bordeaux is chock-full of history both of the viticulture variety and that of the country of France itself. Historians agree that sometime around 43 AD wine production in Bordeaux began. However no official record is noted until 71 AD when Pliny the Elder first came upon the vineyards in Bordeaux.

The Romans, who occupied the area at that time, established vineyards to produce wine for their soldiers. It’s believed the Romans brought those first vine cuttings from Spain, the Rioja region to be exact. These cuttings flourished in the climate and fertile earth along the Gironde.

Bordeaux’s location along a well-established trade route made it a highly prized possession; the area was occupied several times over during the first five centuries. This caused several disruptions to the production of wine in the region and it wasn’t until the 12th century that Bordeaux wines became truly popular.

At the time of the marriage of Aliénor d'Aquitaine to Henry II of England in 1152 Bordeaux in the province of Aquitaine and then fell under British rule as part of the nuptial package. The deep red Bordeaux was utilized in trade, with much of what was being produced in the region exchanged for other goods.

Henry and Aliénor’s youngest son, John, was focused on increasing production of wine in the Bordeaux region and even abolished the export tax on the wine from the region. This gave Bordeaux an advantage over its neighboring wine producers and the popularity of these wines grew.

The Wines of Bordeaux

The Bordeaux region is separated by the Gironde Estuary and the distinctive style of Bordeaux blends is often defined by the location of the appellations-Left bank and Right bank. The Left bank includes such easily recognized names as Medoc, Graves, Margaux and Pauillac and Cabernet Sauvignon is the predominant variety of grape. Merlot dominates the Right bank where you’ll find Saint-Emilion, Bourg and Blaye, Libournais and Pomerol.

The wines of the Left bank are described as peppery and more tannic than the Right. The powerful character of wines from the Left are attributed to the Cabernet Sauvignon grape which is the primary grape in the blends of the Left bank. Right bank wines are far more fruit forward and lower in acidity and tannins.

The Cities, Towns, Villages and Surprising Resorts of Bordeaux

The City of Bordeaux

The towns and villages of Bordeaux’s region are picturesque, charming and quite different from one another. In the city of Bordeaux itself you’ll get a definite city vibe. Walk along the Garonne, stroll past the iconic Place de la Bourse and admire the reflections in the Miroir d’eau, the world's largest reflecting pool. Discover unique shopping on Sainte Catherine Street or simply sit in a cafe and people watch.

While you’re in Bordeaux you can check out the district of Sainte Michel where you’ll find a more cosmopolitan vibe along the narrow streets. And learn about the history of the wine culture in the fascinating La Cité du Vin, a museum dedicated to all things wine in Bordeaux.

Charming Saint-Emilion

The medieval village of Saint-Emilion is known far and wide for its magnificent vineyards. The medieval architecture is also quite stunning and the history and culture contribute to this charming village’s allure. Saint-Emilion has the honor of being the first vineyard recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its value to the world.

Arcachon A Resort for All Seasons

Arcachon is a very popular beach resort and has four distinct districts named for each season. Officially created in 1857 by a decree by Napoleon, this seaside resort became very popular very quickly, even though it was utilized as a place where tuberculosis patients came to heal.  The town’s four season districts each have their own unique personality.

The Summer district is abuzz with activity. Here you’ll find wonderful restaurants and the stunning Casino d'Arcachon, a must see even if you don’t go inside. Autumn is home to the third largest fishing port in France and a stroll along the marina is a lovely way to take in the interesting aspects of the fishing business and witness the harvesting of the very popular oysters from Arcachon.

The architecture in the Winter district is exquisite. Wealthy vacationers built some pretty amazing homes and many of these not-so-humble abodes are preserved in all their extravagant glory. From Swiss chalets to Spanish-Moorish manses with many unique and fascinating customizations you’ll find the architecture of the Winter district remarkable. And be sure to check out the view from the Sainte-Cecile Observatory. The observatory was built by Paul Régnaud in 1863, the architect who constructed the famous Paris landmark the Eiffel Tower. See if you notice any similarities.

Finally the aptly-named Spring district is home to the Abatilles Spring. People have flocked to the spring for “health water” for a century. The appeal of the spring’s health benefits contributed to the popularity and soon a spa was born. The water, which is still sold, was purported to relieve everything from arthritis to kidney stones and lower blood pressure.

The dunes along the shores of Arcachon are among the tallest sand dunes in Europe. One of the dunes in particular, Dune du Pilat, provides climbers an incredible view of the sea and surrounding forests.

Local Delicacies You Can’t Miss

Of course what would a French wine region be without some luscious foods? The oysters from Arcachon’s neighbor, Cap Ferret are a local specialty you simply must try. Pastries such as dunes blanches, a type of mouthwatering cream puff, are absolutely worth every calorie.

The exclusive Canelés de Bordeaux, a luscious rum and vanilla soaked caramelized and custardy bit of goodness can only be called such if they are created using a very specific recipe. Seek out the authentic Canelés de Bordeaux and be mindful of the spelling.

Speaking of specific recipes, the Ursuline order of nuns from Saint-Emilion were the creators of the Macarons de Saint-Emilion, a mouth-watering cookie predating the famed macarons created by Pierre Herme. Unfortunately the nuns abandoned their convent during the French Revolution but the original recipe was given to a family to guard and continue the delicious legacy. Just look for the blue and white boxes of Saint-Emilion macarons and you’ll know you have the authentic version of this marvelous cookie.

About 40 miles from Bordeaux is the town of Bazas where the ancient breed of cattle known as Bazadaise are still raised. The cattle carry a “Label Rouge” which confirms the quality and adherence to a set of very strict guidelines under French law. The beef is rarely seen outside of the region and there are only 13 butchers approved to age and sell the meat. Renowned for its tenderness and superb flavor Bazas beef has often been called the Kobe beef of France.

Foie Gras is a very popular staple of Bordeaux cuisine as is Aquitaine caviar, Blaye white asparagus and Bordeaux saffron is used fairly liberally throughout the region.

A Destination Filled to The Brim

As you can see there is so much to do, see and taste in this incredible region of France. Bordeaux is a gift basket brimming with wonderful sights and flavors and we invite you to discover the wonders of Bordeaux.

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