Chateaus, Vineyards and Amazing Wine!

It was short, but sweet, and I mean that in so many ways. Bordeaux offered amazing architecture, a bustling city that was hardly obnoxious, wine culture everywhere and really good food. And a really cool market.

Got into a wine tour that was full today. I slid in literally at the last second. I came a couple hours early to sign up and they said it was full, but that I should come anyway in case someone doesn’t show up. Even in the off-season, a half-day wine tour through Bordeaux wine country is full a few days in advance. Despite what the vines may say in March, there is no off-season for tourists. Met a bunch of cool people on my tour. Girls studying in Paris from America. Seems I find those Americans pretty easily. Hate to say it too, that I come all the way out here just to hang out with Americans, but it makes being on my own a bit easier.

The tour was pretty good. Expensive, but worth it seeing that it would’ve been impossible to navigate my way to these vineyards, also pretty much known as “chateaus”, by myself. The landscape and just plain atmosphere, was incredible. So pretty. And of course my pictures give no justice because it was a tad foggy out. Not as cold as Paris thank goodness!! I know I have access to tons of vineyards near home in CA, but here, the aura is different. The soil is over 500 years old. We even went to a chateau that was from the 1600s. One of the first to be classified during the Bordeaux classification period when they realized wine could bring in tourism to the area. That second one we visited, Chateau Du Taillan in the Medoc region, was one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been. It was peaceful with a quaintness that only belongs in Bordeaux countryside. The inside was just like you’d imagine Cinderella’s properties to be like. Just think Disney too because they make everything look more magical, even if it’s just a horse stable. This one was obviously less touristy as well, which made the experience even cooler.

Chateau Du Taillan in Medoc.

So technical them vats!!

The first chateau we visited, Chateau Reverdi, was far more manicured and meant for the tasting crowd, but it still held an aura about it that made the wine tasting experience magical. They took us through the fermentation vats and where they keep the wine aging in oak barrels. I really liked the wine here. It was in the Medoc area of Bordeaux, which is known best for it’s red wines.

Chateau Reverdi entrance.

Where they clean the grapes!

Tasting wine with cheese and chocolate!

We also visited the Chateau Margaux. It’s very famous for it’s wine, and the buildings are breathtaking, as well as the estate. Took pics in front of, but didn’t get to taste there. Still way cool to just stroll through the towns and realize that much of the people who live here, no pretty much all, survive off of these vineyards.

Chateau Margaux vineyards.

Chateau Margaux. SO pretty.

Went by a market this morning and bought 10 euro worth of cereal, fruit, pastries, a baguette, a tomato, and amazing chorizo (I’m becoming obsessed….). Ate the baguette and chorizo for breakfast while eating the tomato like an apple. Have to get creative when you’re on a budget! Been snacking on pastries all day and it’s amazing to feel full again!! Wish I had done a better job of this in Paris. Now I have tons of food for my all day train ride tomorrow to Vallalodid, Spain. Staying with Austen’s friends there. Excited to know the language!! See you there.