Bordeaux in the southwest of France is known primarily for its wine. A great many of the fine wines that the world enjoys, such as the Merlot, the Cabernet Sauvignon and the Sauvignon Blanc, come from the vineyards of Bordeaux.
Currently, there are around 9,000 chateaux in Bordeaux that produce the wines that the region is famous for. And so, what better way should you spend your time in the wine country of Bordeaux other than enjoying the wine?
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Top Things to Do in Bordeaux
Wine Tasting
There are many ways to enjoy the wine in Bordeaux. You can learn how the different types of wine produced here are made, and you can do this in many ways.
One way of learning how Bordeaux wine is made is by visiting the city’s wine museums. Going on a tour of the wine museums in Bordeaux will give you an overview on the history and development of wine production in the region.
To further hone your taste, knowledge and appreciation of wine, you can attend wine tastings held in these wine museums, at restaurants or at the Tourism Office of Bordeaux.
Going to these wine tastings will help you learn to differentiate the taste and aroma of one type of wine from another.
Wine Making Course
You can also sign up for courses at places like the Bordeaux Wine School.
You will get some intensive training on wines at that school, but you can also opt for a crash weekend course if that is all the time you can spare for learning about wine on your holiday.
In addition, you can see how wine is being made directly at the source by going on a tour of the wine-producing chateaux of Bordeaux.
Spas
Another unique way of enjoying the wine in Bordeaux is by going to a vinotherapie spa. Bordeaux is the home of the Sources des Caudalie, a world-famous hotel and spa that specializes on vinotherapie treatments.
Vinotherapie takes advantage of the antioxidants found in grapes called polyphenois. These antioxidants help slow down the skin’s aging process. They also help to strengthen blood vessels and to improve blood circulation; these are very important in keeping the cells of the body well-nourished and healthy.
Using various blends of water, grapes and vines, the Sources des Caudalie offers its clients treatments with names like Sauvignon massage, barrel baths, brushed Cabernet scrubs, and many others.
Eating Out
And of course, how can you appreciate the wine in Bordeaux without including it in your meals? The best way to enjoy the wine in Bordeaux is to make it part of your dining experience.
Bordeaux is a French city, and the word “gourmet” is a French word. It would be quite impossible not to connect these two ideas, and indeed, Bordeaux is also as famous for its cuisine as for its wines.
It is one of the central cities of gourmet pleasures in France. Indulge yourself and apply what you have just learned about wine tasting and pairing a dish with the appropriate wine.
Also, do not forget to buy a few bottles to bring home with you. What could be a better souvenir to take home from a holiday in Bordeaux other than its locally made wines?
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