Discover the Southern Graves and Sauternes
The southern Graves and Sauternes regions of Bordeaux offer a captivating blend of world-class wines and picturesque landscapes. Known for their exceptional sweet white wines and rich reds, these areas provide a unique wine tasting experience.
Towns and Villages
Explore charming towns that showcase the region’s wine heritage:
- Sauternes: The epicenter of sweet wine production
- Barsac: Known for its own appellation of sweet wines
- Podensac: Home to the famous Lillet aperitif
- Langon: A larger town with excellent restaurants and shops
Wine Producers
Visit these renowned châteaux for unforgettable tastings:
- Château d’Yquem: The most famous Sauternes producer
- Château Climens: Known as the “Lord of Barsac”
- Château Guiraud: Offers a unique wine and food pairing experience
- Château Smith Haut Lafitte: Produces both red and white Graves wines
Book tours in advance, especially for smaller producers.
Accommodations
Stay amidst the vineyards for an immersive wine experience:
- Les Sources de Caudalie: Luxury spa hotel on the Smith Haut Lafitte estate
- Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey: Elegant rooms in a Sauternes château
- La Sauternaise: Charming B&B in the heart of Sauternes
- Château de Fargues: Historic château offering upscale accommodation
Dining
Savor local cuisine paired with regional wines:
- La Table de Cath (Sauternes): Modern takes on local dishes
- Restaurant Claude Darroze (Langon): Michelin-starred gastronomy
- La Table du Lavoir (Smith Haut Lafitte): Casual bistro with vineyard views
- Château Guiraud: Farm-to-table restaurant in a historic setting
Try local specialties like foie gras and canelés, perfectly paired with Sauternes wines.
Wine Shops & Bars
Explore these local wine shops and bars for a taste of the region:
- La Maison des Vins de Graves (Podensac): Offers a wide selection of local wines
- Wine Bar Le Plaisir (Langon): Cozy spot with an extensive wine list
- Cave de Landiras: Family-run shop with personalized recommendations
- L’Arôme Wine Bar (Sauternes): Specializes in local sweet wines
Many châteaux also have on-site shops where you can purchase wines directly.
Other Shops
Pick up local specialties and souvenirs:
- Chocolaterie Léonidas (Langon): Artisanal chocolates that pair well with Sauternes
- La Maison Lillet (Podensac): Shop for the famous aperitif wine
- Marché de Langon: Weekly market for fresh local produce
- Les Délices de Graves (Barsac): Gourmet shop featuring regional products
Attractions
Beyond wine, explore these local attractions:
- Château de Roquetaillade: Medieval castle with guided tours
- La Maison Lillet: Museum dedicated to the history of Lillet aperitif
- Domaine de Malagar: Former home of writer François Mauriac
- Parc Naturel Régional des Landes de Gascogne: Nature reserve for hiking and birdwatching
Events
Time your visit with these wine-focused events:
- Sauternes Fête le Vin (June): Wine festival celebrating sweet wines
- Portes Ouvertes en Graves (April): Open house weekend at local châteaux
- Fête des Vendanges (September/October): Harvest celebrations across the region
- Marché de Noël (December): Christmas markets featuring local wines and crafts
Appellations
Understand the key wine appellations of the area:
- Graves: Known for both red and white wines
- Pessac-Léognan: A sub-region of Graves, producing high-quality reds and whites
- Sauternes: Famous for sweet white wines affected by noble rot
- Barsac: Similar to Sauternes, but with its own distinct character
Each appellation has specific regulations governing wine production and labeling.
Grape Varieties
The Southern Graves and Sauternes regions of Bordeaux are renowned for their distinctive grape varieties. Red and white grapes thrive in this area’s unique terroir.
Red Grape Varieties
- Cabernet Sauvignon: Produces full-bodied, tannic wines
- Merlot: Adds softness and fruitiness to blends
- Cabernet Franc: Contributes aromatics and structure
White Grape Varieties
- Sémillon: The primary grape in Sauternes, susceptible to noble rot
- Sauvignon Blanc: Adds acidity and freshness to blends
- Muscadelle: Used in small amounts for aromatic complexity
Main Wine Styles
The region produces a range of wine styles, from dry reds to lusciously sweet whites. Each style showcases the unique characteristics of the local terroir.
Dry Red Wines
- Graves Rouge: Elegant, medium-bodied reds with mineral notes
- Pessac-Léognan: Full-bodied, complex reds with aging potential
Sweet White Wines
- Sauternes: Intensely sweet, golden wines with honeyed flavors
- Barsac: Similar to Sauternes but often lighter and more delicate
Dry White Wines
- Graves Blanc: Crisp, aromatic whites with citrus and floral notes
Food Specialties
The cuisine of Southern Graves and Sauternes perfectly complements the local wines. Traditional dishes highlight regional ingredients and flavors.
Local Delicacies
- Foie Gras: Pairs wonderfully with Sauternes
- Oysters from Arcachon Bay: Ideal with dry white Graves
- Entrecôte à la Bordelaise: Classic pairing for red Graves
- Canelés: Small pastries with a caramelized crust
Drives & Walks
Explore the picturesque landscapes of Southern Graves and Sauternes through scenic drives and walks. These routes offer stunning views of vineyards and historic châteaux.
Scenic Drives
- Route des Châteaux: A winding road through Pessac-Léognan’s famous estates
- Sauternes Loop: A circular drive connecting the sweet wine villages
Walking Trails
- Ciron Valley Path: Explore the river responsible for Sauternes’ unique microclimate
- Graves Vineyard Trail: A 7km walk through the heart of Graves wine country
Itineraries
Plan your visit with these curated itineraries, designed to showcase the best of Southern Graves and Sauternes. Each route combines wine tasting, local cuisine, and cultural experiences.
3-Day Wine Lovers’ Tour
- Day 1: Explore Pessac-Léognan, visit Château Smith Haut Lafitte
- Day 2: Sauternes tasting at Château d’Yquem, lunch in Barsac
- Day 3: Tour Graves wineries, dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant
5-Day Gourmet Experience
- Days 1-2: Wine and food pairing workshops in Graves
- Days 3-4: Sauternes exploration, including a cooking class
- Day 5: Visit to Bordeaux city for cultural attractions and wine bars
Getting There & Around
Southern Graves and Sauternes are easily accessible from Bordeaux, the main hub for the region.
By Air
- Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport: International gateway, 30-60 minutes drive to wine regions
- Shuttle services and car rentals available at the airport
By Train
- Bordeaux Saint-Jean Station: High-speed TGV connections from Paris (2 hours)
- Local trains to Langon for easier access to Sauternes
Local Transportation
- Rental car: Best option for exploring vineyards and remote châteaux
- Guided tours: Convenient for wine tasting without driving concerns
- Taxi services: Available in larger towns, but can be costly for long distances
Best Time to Visit
The region offers unique experiences year-round, but certain seasons provide optimal conditions for wine enthusiasts.
Spring (April-May)
- Mild weather, perfect for outdoor activities and vineyard walks
- Fewer tourists compared to summer months
Autumn (September-October)
- Harvest season: Exciting time to witness grape picking and winemaking processes
- Pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage in the vineyards
Summer (June-August)
- Warm weather ideal for outdoor wine tastings
- Busiest tourist season, advance bookings recommended
Sustainability Efforts
Southern Graves and Sauternes are at the forefront of sustainable winemaking practices in Bordeaux.
Eco-Friendly Initiatives
- Organic and biodynamic viticulture: Increasing number of certified producers
- Water conservation: Advanced irrigation systems to reduce water usage
- Biodiversity programs: Planting cover crops and creating wildlife corridors
Sustainable Wineries to Visit
- Château Smith Haut Lafitte: Solar panels and gravity-flow winemaking
- Château Guiraud: First Grand Cru Classé to be certified organic in Sauternes
Language Tips
While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning a few French phrases can enhance your wine tasting experience.
Essential Wine Vocabulary
- “Je voudrais goûter ce vin”: I would like to taste this wine
- “Sec”: Dry “Doux”: Sweet
- “Santé!”: Cheers!
Tasting Room Etiquette
- Greet with “Bonjour” upon entering
- Ask permission before taking photos in private cellars
Further Resources
Enhance your Southern Graves and Sauternes experience with these additional resources.
Wine Apps
- Bordeaux Wine Trip: Official app for planning wine routes
- Vivino: Scan labels for ratings and reviews
Websites
- Bordeaux Tourism Official Site: Comprehensive guide to the region
- Graves-Sauternes Tourism: Specific information on local wineries and events
Books
- “The Wines of Bordeaux” by Oz Clarke: In-depth exploration of Bordeaux appellations
- “Noble Rot: A Bordeaux Wine Revolution” by William Echikson: Insights into the region’s winemaking history
