The Rising Reds of Bordeaux - Right Bank
For generations, Bordeaux has been known as the most famous winemaking region in the world. Every year, wine lovers from all over the world come to Bordeaux for one simple reason: to visit the 300,000 acres of vineyards that lie outside town and stretch for miles in every direction. And no matter which direction you go, there's an appellation - from the classic reds to the Médoc to the underappreciated whites of Graves and Entre-Deux-Mers; from the unparalleled dessert wines of Sauternes, to the rising reds of the Right Bank's Pomerol and Saint-Émilion.
Winemakers from all over the world have credited the wines of Bordeaux for influencing their personal winemaking style. Although Sunday is usually a day of rest for wineries in Bordeaux, Food & Wine Trails has designed a special experience at three châteaux that produce Grand Cru Classé reds in the Saint-Émilion appellation, considered by some to be the "Capital of Merlot" and possibly the oldest, active wine producing appellation in the region with history dating back to the ancient Romans.
Your day begins with a visit to Château La Gaffeliere, ranked a Premier Grand Cru Classé since St Emilion's classification system was created in 1959. The unbroken presence of the Malet Roquefort family at the estate since 1611 makes them the oldest winegrowing family in St Emilion. They benefit from a very special terroir that they call the "Golden Triangle", located between the hills of Ausone and Pavie. You will tour their vineyards and winery which combines high-tech innovation with traditional architecture, and then enjoy a tasting of three of their wines.
A short drive brings you to another top winery in the St. Emilion appellation - Château Pavie. The winery's name comes from the small-vine peaches called "pavie" that used to grow there. Awarded several 100 points by Robert Parker, Pavie continues to produce complex, opulent wines that stand out as some of the best in St Emilion. Your visits begins with a tour of its magnificent cellar designed in 2013 by the famous architect and decorator Alberto Pinto, followed by a tasting of their awarded winning wines.
After your tasting you will transfer to the picturesque Château de Candale. this charming chateau was built by lady Marguerite de Suffolk Kandale ,direct descendant of the King of England Edward |||. You will enjoy lunch on their beautiful terrace in the middle of the vineyards. Chef Cyrille Gallard has designed a three-course menu paired with the estate's wines.
Later this afternoon your guide will lead you into the medieval village of Saint Emilion for a private tour of the underground hermitage and monolithic church before heading back to the ship.