Bordeaux

July to September is peak summer with warm temperatures ideal for vineyard visits. Harvest runs September to October — the most exciting time. Spring (April–June) is beautiful with lower crowds and cooler weather.

Plan for 2–3 château visits per day. Many require advance appointments, especially classified estates like Château Margaux, Pétrus, and Mouton Rothschild. Allow time for the scenic drive between the Left and Right Banks.

The Left Bank (Médoc, Graves) is dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon producing structured, tannic wines. The Right Bank (Saint-Émilion, Pomerol) favours Merlot, producing rounder, earlier-drinking styles.

Yes — the vineyards are spread across a large area and public transport is limited. Alternatively, book a guided wine tour from Bordeaux city which includes transport and multiple château stops.

Bordeaux blends Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. Left Bank wines are Cabernet-dominant; Right Bank wines are Merlot-dominant. White Bordeaux uses Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon.