The 7 BEST Places For Wine Tasting In Bordeaux Centre in 2025
Last updated on December 20th, 2024 at 09:49 am
Want to do some wine tasting in Bordeaux but don’t want to do a full tour?
You’re in the right place. I live in France, not far from Bordeaux, and I love my wine, especially a nice deep red. And Bordeaux has some amazing reds.
I’ve learned so much about wine since taking part in the wine harvest last year. Plus, I’ve also been on several tours, workshops and masterclasses in and around Bordeaux.
But not everyone visiting the city has time to do a full tour of the vineyards and wineries.
And, most of these are outside the city, which means driving or paying for an expensive tour.
Now, I will say, having done some of these tours, they are brilliant and worth the money. But you need the time to do them as they’re usually 5-7 hours long.
And if you’re only spending a couple of days in Bordeaux, you’ll want something quick, easy and within walking distance of your hotel.
So, I’ve found seven wine tasting options for you in the city centre, some of which I’ve done myself. It was a hard job, but someone had to do it, so let’s dive in and see what I discovered.
My Top 3 Picks: Wine Tasting in Bordeaux City Centre
Going to France and not tasting wine is like going to Spain and not eating paella, an absolute sin.
And Bordeaux has some of the best wine in France, so that’s a double sin. So here are seven wine tasting experiences you can have in Bordeaux during your trip.
Wine and Food Walking Tour in Bordeaux
✅ 3 Hour tour and tasting
✅ Personalised small group
✅ 5-star rating
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Apero Wine Tasting Night Tour
✅ 3-hour tour of Bordeaux
✅ History, wine and food
✅ English-speaking tour guide
Vintage Wine Tasting with Charcuterie Board
✅ Taste 4 vintage French wines
✅ Local charcuterie and cheese
✅ Biodynamic organic wines
Wine Tasting Tour in Bordeaux City Centre
No 1 – The Wine and Food Walking Tour in Bordeaux
There is nothing “cookie-cutter” about The Wine and Food Walking Tour in Bordeaux, as it’s completely personalised to your group.
⭐️ RATING: 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 Hours | ✅ Check Rates & Availability!
WHY YOU’LL WANT TO BOOK THIS TOUR
Lasting around three hours, your food and wine tour takes you through the heart of Bordeaux with stops at artisanal shops showcasing the best of French gastronomy.
You’ll indulge in generous portions of wine, cheese, charcuterie, and other tasting samples, carefully selected to represent the art of French cuisine.
The experience is not just about tasting it’s an educational journey led by former chefs, food writers, and wine experts. They’ll share their knowledge, from the “right” bread to the seasonality of cheese and the intricacies of French wine regions.
As you walk through the city, your guide will also highlight historical landmarks, including the iconic Grosse Cloche, adding a rich cultural layer to the culinary exploration.
The tour finishes in a wine cellar for a comprehensive tasting session, and you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and enjoy some fabulous Bordeaux wine.
WHAT OTHERS HAVE SAID
Absolutely amazing tour, Alex was fantastic, really knowledgeable and passionate. Integrated everyone into the group so much so, who knows what time we finished up together.
GEORGE (read more reviews)
No 2 – The Apero Wine Tasting Night Tour
Experience Bordeaux at night and enjoy a combination of history and gastronomy with The Apero Wine Tasting Night Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 Hours | ✅ Check Rates & Availability!
WHY YOU’LL WANT TO BOOK THIS HOTEL
A blend of sightseeing and gourmet experiences, the Apero Wine Tasting Night Tour is a journey through the heart of Bordeaux.
You’ll start at the Place de la Bourse before moving on to the Water Mirror, which is stunning when lit up at night with the reflection of the buildings.
The tour takes you through a series of picturesque squares, including Place Camille Jullian and Place de la Victoire, each with its own story and significance, adding layers of history and culture to your culinary adventure.
The highlight of the evening is a stop at a bar in Place Général Sarrail, where you’ll enjoy a selection of French cheeses and charcuterie or Lebanese Mezze, all paired with Bordeaux wine.
WHAT OTHERS HAVE SAID
Siad was a wonderful and knowledgeable tour guide. He was patient with us since my mom walks a little slower. He brought us to all really nice places that we didn’t find when we walked by ourselves for hours. And the bar he brought us to was like being in someone’s home. It was soooo good.
JENNIFER (read more reviews)
No 3 – Bordeaux Wine and Cheese Tasting with a Walking Tour
The Bordeaux Wine and Cheese Tasting Walking Tour combines the exploration of its UNESCO-listed streets with a sommelier-led tasting experience.
⭐️ RATING: 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 Hours | ✅ Check Rates & Availability!
WHY YOU’LL WANT TO BOOK THIS HOTEL
Starting in the historic Chartrons district, known as the Old Wine Merchant Street, the Bordeaux Wine and Cheese Tasting Walking Tour takes you on a fascinating walk through time and taste.
You’ll delve into Bordeaux’s wine history, learning about the evolution of winemaking and the significant role the city has played in the wine trade over the centuries.
The tour includes stops at notable landmarks such as the Pont Jacques Chaban Delmas, where you’ll discover the intersection of modern technology and traditional winemaking, and the Pont de Pierre, with its connections to Napoleon Bonaparte.
The journey also takes you past the Eglise St Louis des Chartrons and the “Maisons Jumelles,” shedding light on the architectural and cultural heritage of Bordeaux.
The tour finishes with a blind wine-tasting session, where your sommelier guide will lead you through a curated selection of Bordeaux Bio Wines, including 1 white, 2 reds, and 1 sweet wine, each paired with an assortment of cheeses.
WHAT OTHERS HAVE SAID
Clem was an enthusiastic tour guide for a brief walking tour of the Chartron area, followed by a fun and delicious tasting of wine and cheese pairings. She covered lots of useful information, including wine styles, regions, how to read labels, and the steps in wine tasting.
VIRGINIA (read more reviews)
Wine Tasting Workshops in Bordeaux
A fun way to do some tasting whilst learning about the wine without going too in-depth is to do one of the wine tasting workshops in the city’s centre.
You can even try your hand at making your own Cuvée wine to take home with you.
No 4 – A Vintage Wine Tasting with Charcuterie Board
Delve into the heart of Bordeaux’s wine culture with the Vintage Wine Tasting with Charcuterie Board experience.
⭐️ RATING: 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 Hours | ✅ Check Rates & Availability!
WHY YOU’LL WANT TO BOOK THIS HOTEL
Featuring an exclusive tasting of vintage French wines from the 70s, 80s, and 90s, perfectly paired with local charcuterie and cheese, the Vintage Wine Tasting with Charcuterie Board workshop is a fun and informative experience, which I loved.
It takes place at Cousin and Compagnie, one of Bordeaux’s oldest independent wine shops, renowned for pioneering the introduction of biodynamic and natural wines to the city.
Here, in a setting that breathes history and passion for wine, your host, an expert in Bordeaux’s wine heritage, will guide you through a tasting of four vintage wines, each selected for its unique character and representation of the region’s vinicultural evolution.
These wines, notable for their biodynamic and natural cultivation methods, come from family estates and independent winemakers, ensuring a tasting experience that’s not only fun but also ethically and environmentally conscious.
You’ll learn about the winemaking process, the significance of biodynamic practices, and the art of pairing wine with food.
The accompanying charcuterie and cheese board, sourced from local producers, provided the perfect complement to the wines.
WHAT OTHERS HAVE SAID
I loved my private wine-tasting experience with Cousin and Compagnie. It was interesting to learn about the wines, and I ended up buying a couple of bottles to take home.
KYLIE (me)
No 5 – A Private Wine Masterclass with Cheese and Charcuterie
The Private Wine Masterclass with Cheese and Charcuterie takes a deep dive into the region’s renowned wine culture, guided by an expert sommelier.
⭐️ RATING: 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1.5 Hours | ✅ Check Rates & Availability!
WHY YOU’LL WANT TO BOOK THIS HOTEL
An intimate workshop designed to enhance your understanding and appreciation of Bordeaux wines, this Private Wine Masterclass with Cheese and Charcuterie takes you from the basics of tasting to the complexities of vinification and ageing.
Set in a cosy venue just steps away from the Grand Theatre, you’ll sample six regional wines, starting with a white wine to introduce you to the key steps of wine tasting using a universal method.
This is followed by three single grape variety red wines, offering insights into their unique characteristics and the importance of blending in Bordeaux winemaking. And you’ll finish with two fine wines, including a grand cru, showcasing the distinct terroirs of the left and right banks of Bordeaux.
Accompanying the wines is an assortment of local cheeses and charcuterie, along with fresh baguette bread, providing a delicious exploration of local flavours and the art of food and wine pairing.
Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned wine enthusiast, this workshop promises a comprehensive and enjoyable education in Bordeaux’s wine heritage.
WHAT OTHERS HAVE SAID
Great fun, small group! I love that smelling challenge. The wine and food provided were impeccable and the whole experience is just simply fun, informative and social in a very small setting.
BOWIE (read more reviews)
No 6 – A Morning Wine Tasting Class
Who needs coffee for breakfast when you can have wine? The Morning Wine Tasting Class starts at 10.30 am, which is “wine-o-clock” somewhere in the world.
⭐️ RATING: 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 Hours | ✅ Check Rates & Availability!
WHY YOU’LL WANT TO BOOK THIS HOTEL
Starting with a welcome of a glass of white wine and a glass of red wine, the Morning Wine Tasting Class is a two-hour masterclass.
Under the guidance of a professional wine educator, you’ll learn to decipher the codes of wine through its colour, aroma, and taste, gaining the skills to appreciate and compare wines with confidence.
The experience then broadens to a tour of French wines, tasting four wines from the country’s main wine regions. This tasting not only highlights the diversity of French wines but also introduces the concepts of ‘terroir’ and ‘appellation’, key to understanding the uniqueness of each wine.
The highlight of the class is a blending workshop, where you’ll explore the composition of Bordeaux wines, known for their blends of grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. You’ll taste these varieties separately, to help you understand the individual characteristics of each grape.
Then, with your newfound knowledge, you’ll have the opportunity to blend your own ‘cuvée’, creating a personalised wine that reflects your taste preferences. The class concludes with the chance to enjoy your creations alongside a platter of traditional French delicacies, including cheese, charcuterie, and chocolate, making for a perfect pairing experience.
WHAT OTHERS HAVE SAID
Great experience!! We had Quentin, a very good teacher. He explains really well, and gives good advice if you want to buy wine and even cannelés. And above all, he is super nice. If I had to do it again I would do it without hesitation! We recommend!!
JENNA (read more reviews)
No 7 – Make Your Own Cuvée Wine Workshop
⭐️ RATING: 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 Hours | ✅ Check Rates & Availability!
WHY YOU’LL WANT TO BOOK THIS HOTEL
Pierre and Geoffroy, cellar men and brothers with a passion for viticulture invite you to join them on the “Make Your Own Cuvée Wine Workshop,” a hands-on experience in winemaking.
You’ll explore the distinctive characteristics of Bordeaux’s vineyard, particularly focusing on the renowned wine-producing areas of the left bank of the Garonne River, the right bank, and the Graves region.
The session begins with an introduction to the main features of these areas, setting the stage for a deeper appreciation of Bordeaux’s wine diversity and complexity.
In the second part of the workshop, the real magic happens as you step into the shoes of a winemaker. With a variety of grape types at your disposal, you’ll learn the art of blending to create your very own cuvée.
Not only will you understand the emblematic grape varieties of the Bordeaux vineyard but you’ll learn the intricate process of blending these varieties to achieve a personalised wine.
Throughout the workshop, Pierre and Geoffroy provide expert guidance and explanations, ensuring you have the knowledge and confidence to craft your perfect blend.
As a memento of this special experience, you’ll have the opportunity to take home your custom cuvée, complete with your own labelling and bottling. Paired with cheese and charcuterie from the Basque Country, it’s a comprehensive and enjoyable introduction to the world of Bordeaux wines.
WHAT OTHERS HAVE SAID
A very personal experience. Learnt a lot about the region and tried some great wines. A real highlight of our trip.
DANIELLE (read more reviews)
Three Wine Shops in Bordeaux Offering Tasting
If all you want to do is a quick tasting that doesn’t last more than 30 minutes or so, then a great option is to try one of the wine caves in Bordeaux.
There are three I recommend. The first is Cousin & Compagnie, which runs the Vintage Wine Tasting with Charcuterie Board I mentioned earlier. I had a great tasting experience here which was less than half an hour, but still gave me the chance to try three exceptional reds.
No 1 Cousin & Compagnie
Located in the historic Quartier des Chartrons, the heart of Bordeaux’s wine trade, Cousin & Compagnie focuses on organic, biodynamic, and natural wines and offers tastings that are both educational and enjoyable, highlighting the unique qualities of these wines. I loved the passion and expertise of the staff.
Read reviews for Cousin & Compagnie here >>>
No 2 L’Intendant Grands Vins de Bordeaux
Just a stone’s throw from the Grand Théâtre, L’Intendant is a visually stunning wine shop with a spiral staircase winding through four floors, each dedicated to the wines of Bordeaux.
It offers a wide selection of wines, from affordable finds to top-tier vintages. All you have to do is ask, and the staff can guide you through tastings of various Bordeaux wines, providing insights into the region’s diverse appellations and winemaking techniques.
Read reviews for L’Intendant Grands Vins de Bordeaux here >>>
No 3 La Vinothèque de Bordeaux
Situated near the Place des Quinconces, La Vinothèque de Bordeaux is one of the city’s most respected wine shops, with a huge collection of Bordeaux wines, as well as selections from other French and international regions.
They frequently host wine tastings and workshops, where both novices and connoisseurs can deepen their understanding of wine.
Visit La Vinothèque Website >>>
Things To Know Before Going Wine Tasting In Bordeaux
The Bordeaux wine region is split by the rivers Garonne and Dordogne, which eventually merge to form the Gironde estuary, known as the left bank and right bank.
Each bank has distinct soil types, grape varieties, and winemaking traditions that significantly influence the style and character of the wines produced.
Left Bank vs Right Bank
The Left Bank is located on the west side of the Gironde estuary and south of the Garonne River. It is most famous for its gravelly soil, which is particularly suited to growing Cabernet Sauvignon grapes.
It’s home to some of the most prestigious appellations in Bordeaux, including Médoc, Pauillac, Saint-Julien, and Margaux.
Wines from the Left Bank are typically Cabernet Sauvignon dominant, known for their structure, tannins, and ability to age, reflecting the terroir’s influence in producing powerful and complex wines.
The Right Bank is on the east side of the Dordogne River and north of the Gironde estuary and is characterised by its clay and limestone soils, which are more favourable for Merlot and Cabernet Franc grapes.
This results in wines that are generally softer, more fruit-forward, and approachable at a younger age compared to those from the Left Bank.
Key appellations include Saint-Émilion and Pomerol, where some of the world’s most sought-after and expensive wines are produced.
Soil and Terroir
The diversity of Bordeaux’s soil and terroir is an interesting one. The Left Bank’s gravel aids drainage and reflects sunlight, ripening the Cabernet Sauvignon grapes.
In contrast, the Right Bank’s clay retains moisture, benefiting Merlot grapes by keeping them hydrated.
This geological diversity underpins the distinct profiles of Bordeaux wines, from the powerful and age-worthy wines of the Left Bank to the plush and velvety offerings of the Right Bank.
Types of Bordeaux Wine
Bordeaux is synonymous with red wine, but the region’s portfolio is diverse:
- Red Wines: The backbone of Bordeaux, blending Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, among others. These wines range from the powerful and tannic to the soft and fruity, reflecting the region’s varied terroir.
- White Wines: Though less popular than its reds, Bordeaux also produces exceptional white wines, primarily from Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon. These range from the dry and crisp to the sweet and luscious, exemplified by the world-renowned Sauternes.
- Rosé and Claret: Lighter options include Bordeaux Rosé and Claret, the latter being a lighter red wine, both perfect for casual sipping and dining.
Tasting and Drinking Your Bordeaux Wine at Home
Wine Tasting Tips
- Start Light, Finish Strong: Begin with lighter wines, such as dry Bordeaux whites or Rosé, moving towards the more robust reds. This progression allows your palate to adapt without being overwhelmed.
- Temperature Matters: Serve white Bordeaux wines chilled, around 8-10°C, and red Bordeaux wines slightly below room temperature, around 16-18°C, to best express their flavours.
- Decanting: Decanting is beneficial for both young and aged red Bordeaux wines. It helps to aerate younger wines, softening tannins, and allows sediment to settle in older vintages.
- Mind the Glassware: Use a larger glass for red Bordeaux wines to enhance their aromas and a narrower glass for whites to concentrate their delicate scents.
Pairing Your Wine
- Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated Blends (Left Bank): The structure and tannins of these wines pair really well with red meats, such as lamb or beef, and hard cheeses like aged cheddar or Comté.
- Merlot-dominated Blends (Right Bank): The softer, fruitier profile of Right Bank wines is good with duck, pork, and mushroom dishes, as well as softer cheeses like Brie or Camembert.
- Dry White Bordeaux: These crisp wines are a match made in heaven with seafood, particularly oysters, and goat cheese salads.
- Sweet White Bordeaux (e.g., Sauternes): The luscious sweetness of Bordeaux’s dessert wines pairs beautifully with foie gras, blue cheeses, and desserts like lemon tart or crème brûlée.
- Rosé and Claret: Ideal for lighter nibbles, these wines go well with charcuterie, grilled chicken, and soft cheeses. Perfect if you’re hosting Apéros.
Pairing chocolate with wine
Putting chocolate and wine together might sound strange, but it’s a seriously good combination and one I indulge in probably a bit too regularly.
But it’s the best of both worlds and two of my favourite things, so for me, it’s a match made in heaven. Although, I do prefer a darker more bitter chocolate with my wine.
- Dark Chocolate: The intense flavours of dark chocolate pair well with full-bodied red Bordeaux wines, where the cocoa’s bitterness complements the wine’s tannins.
- Milk Chocolate: Choose a sweeter style of wine, such as a younger Merlot-dominated blend, to harmonise with milk chocolate’s creamy sweetness.
FAQS: Wine Tasting Bordeaux City Centre
What is the best wine tour in Bordeaux?
The best wine tour in Bordeaux often depends on personal preferences, but tours that include visits to prestigious châteaux in the Médoc region, tastings of top-class wines, and insights from knowledgeable guides are highly rated.
The Saint-Émilion wine tour is especially popular for its combination of historic vineyards and UNESCO-listed village exploration.
Is Bordeaux good for wine tasting?
Yes, Bordeaux is excellent for wine tasting. It is one of the most renowned wine-producing regions in the world, offering a wide range of wine experiences. Visitors can enjoy tasting world-class reds, whites, and sweet wines across various appellations, each with its unique characteristics.
Where can I go in Bordeaux for wine?
In Bordeaux, you can visit multiple prestigious wine regions, including Médoc, Saint-Émilion, Pomerol, and Graves. Each area offers unique vineyard tours, wine tastings, and the opportunity to learn about wine production.
The city of Bordeaux also hosts La Cité du Vin, a world-class wine museum that provides a comprehensive wine experience.
Do you need to book wine tasting in Bordeaux?
Yes, it is advisable to book wine tasting in Bordeaux in advance. Many wineries and châteaux require reservations for tours and tastings to ensure a personalised and informative experience.
Booking ahead also helps secure a spot at popular estates that might have limited availability.
Final thoughts: Wine Tasting In Bordeaux City
If you’re only in Bordeaux for one or two days, then a quick masterclass on wine within the city walls is the best way to go.
However, if you’re up for a full day out in the amazing vineyards of Bordeaux, there are some fantastic wine tours you can do.
You can also stay in some of the wine chateaux around Bordeaux if you want the full wine experience.
If you’re staying for a bit longer, I’d also recommend doing one of the food tours as Bordeaux is also a foodie city, with loads of fabulous restaurants.
And don’t forget, Bordeaux also has some fantastic beaches within an hour by train, which make a great day out.
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