Entre-Deux-Mers, Bourg, and Blaye Wine Travel Guide (Bordeaux, France)

Discovering Entre-Deux-Mers, Bourg, and Blaye Nestled in the heart of Bordeaux, France, the regions of Entre-Deux-Mers, Bourg, and Blaye offer a captivating blend of rich wine heritage and picturesque landscapes. These areas, often overlooked by tourists, provide an authentic French wine experience away from the crowds. Towns and Villages The Entre-Deux-Mers region boasts charming medieval villages like Saint-Macaire and La Réole. Bourg-sur-Gironde, perched on a rocky outcrop, offers panoramic views of the Dordogne and Garo

e rivers. Blaye, known for its UNESCO-listed citadel, combines history with wine culture. Don't miss the underground passages and wine cellars within the fortress walls. Wine Producers Château de Reignac (Entre-Deux-Mers): Known for its i

ovative winemaking techniques Château Fougas (Côtes de Bourg): Produces organic and biodynamic wines Château des Tourtes (Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux): Family-run estate offering vineyard tours and tastings Many wineries offer tours and tastings, but it's best to book in advance, especially during peak season. Accommodations Château hotels provide a unique stay amidst vineyards. Try Château Grattequina in Entre-Deux-Mers or Château Rudey in Blaye for an authentic experience. For budget-friendly options, consider chambres d'hôtes (bed and breakfasts) like La Maison du Pays d'Orthe in Bourg or Le Clos des Princes in Blaye. Dining Sample local cuisine paired with regional wines at La Table de l'Esturgeon in Bourg or Le Chêne du Fils in Blaye. For a Michelin-starred experience, visit La Table de Plaisance in Saint-Émilion, just outside Entre-Deux-Mers. Don't miss the opportunity to try entrecôte à la bordelaise, a local specialty perfectly complemented by the region's red wines. Wine Shops & Bars Explore local wine culture at these establishments: La Cave d'Ulysse in Blaye: Wide selection of regional wines Le Wine Bar in Bourg: Cozy atmosphere with knowledgeable staff Maison des Vins de Entre-Deux-Mers in La Réole: Offers tastings and wine education Many shops offer shipping services for tourists wanting to take wines home. Other Shops Support local artisans and businesses: Marché de Créon: Wednesday morning market for local produce and crafts La Fromagerie Beillevaire in Bourg: Artisanal cheeses to pair with regional wines Les Chocolats de Blaye: Handmade chocolates, perfect for souvenirs Attractions Beyond wine, the region offers diverse activities: Citadel of Blaye: UNESCO World Heritage site with stu

ing views Abbey of La Sauve-Majeure in Entre-Deux-Mers: Romanesque architecture marvel Maison du Vin et du Terroir in Bourg: Interactive exhibits on local winemaking Consider renting bikes to explore the scenic countryside between vineyard visits. Events Plan your visit around these wine-centric events: Fête du Vin in Bourg (July): Wine tastings, local food, and live music Portes Ouvertes en Entre-Deux-Mers (May): Wineries open their doors for tours and tastings Blaye au Comptoir (March): Blaye wines showcased in Bordeaux city Book accommodations early for popular event dates to avoid disappointment. Appellations Understand the local wine classifications: Entre-Deux-Mers AOC: Known for crisp white wines Côtes de Bourg AOC: Red blends dominate, with some white and rosé Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux AOC: Reds and some whites, often great value Look for wines labeled with these appellations for authentic local flavors. Grape Varieties Entre-Deux-Mers, Bourg, and Blaye regions primarily grow Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle for white wines. Red varieties include Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. These grapes thrive in the area's maritime climate and diverse soil types, ranging from limestone to clay and gravel. Main Wine Styles Entre-Deux-Mers is renowned for its crisp, dry white wines with notes of citrus and green apple. Bourg and Blaye produce full-bodied red wines with rich fruit flavors and soft ta

ins. Some producers also craft rosé and sparkling wines, adding diversity to the region's offerings. Food Specialties The region's cuisine pairs perfectly with its wines. Oysters from the nearby Arcachon Bay complement the white wines of Entre-Deux-Mers. Entrecôte à la Bordelaise, a local steak dish, pairs excellently with the robust reds of Bourg and Blaye. Don't miss the opportunity to try canelés, a local pastry specialty. Drives & Walks The Route des Vins de Blaye et Bourg offers a scenic drive through vineyards and charming villages. Stop at viewpoints overlooking the Gironde Estuary for breathtaking vistas. For nature lovers, the Parc Naturel Régional des Landes de Gascogne provides excellent hiking trails amidst pine forests and wetlands. Itineraries Day 1: Entre-Deux-Mers Exploration Morning: Visit the Maison des Vins de l'Entre-Deux-Mers in La Sauve Afternoon: Tour and tasting at Château de Rions Evening: Di

er at a local restaurant in Saint-Macaire Day 2: Bourg and Blaye Adventure Morning: Explore the Citadel of Blaye, a UNESCO World Heritage site Afternoon: Wine tasting at Château Fougas in Lansac Evening: Sunset cruise on the Gironde Estuary Getting There & Around The nearest major airport is Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport. From there, rent a car for easy access to the wine regions. Public transport is limited, so a car is recommended for exploring vineyards and small towns. Best Time to Visit Late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) offer ideal weather for wine touring and outdoor activities. Avoid August, as many businesses close for summer holidays. Sustainability Efforts Many wineries in the region are adopting organic and biodynamic practices. Look for certifications like Agriculture Biologique (AB) on wine labels. Some producers, like Château Fougas, are leaders in sustainable viticulture. Language Tips Learn basic French wine terms: "blanc" (white), "rouge" (red), "dégustation" (tasting). Most wineries offer tours in English, but calling ahead to confirm is advisable. Further Resources Visit the Maison des Vins de l'Entre-Deux-Mers website for up-to-date information on wineries and events. Download the Bordeaux Wine Trip app for self-guided tours and winery information.