Need inspiration? Discover Bordeaux wines differently with these activities

Published the 06/06/2023 in Exploring the Region

Wine and Electric Bike/E-trott Tour with La Bulle Verte 

Experience the beauty of Bordeaux's vineyards while being environmentally friendly with La Bulle Verte's electric bike tour. This unique experience allows you to explore the vineyards and taste the wine produced in the area while being kind to the planet. You will ride through the stunning countryside, visit several vineyards, and learn about the local wine-making techniques. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to taste the wines produced in the area and get a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process. The electric bikes make this tour accessible to all levels of fitness and are a fun and easy way to explore the region.

Blending Workshop

Learn the art of blending wine during a workshop with a local winemaker. My Private French Travel's blending workshop allows you to create your own unique blend using different varieties of wine and learn about the history of winemaking in Bordeaux. This hands-on experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts who want to deepen their knowledge and appreciation of the art of winemaking. You will learn about the different grape varieties used in winemaking and how they contribute to the final blend. You will then get to create your own blend under the guidance of an expert winemaker, using the same techniques used by Bordeaux's most renowned winemakers. This experience is a unique opportunity to learn from the experts and create your own signature blend to take home and enjoy, even with a designed label made by yourself. That's also the perfect activity for a convivial team-building. 

Picnic at the Estate

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Bordeaux's vineyards during a relaxing afternoon at a vineyard estate. My Private French Travel offers a gourmet picnic with local delicacies, accompanied by a tasting of the estate's wines. The estate's stunning gardens and scenery provide the perfect backdrop for a peaceful afternoon in the countryside. You will learn about the history of the estate and the winemaking process while enjoying a leisurely picnic. This experience is perfect for those who want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy a tranquil afternoon in nature. Combine it with a hike in the vines with the Bulle Verte experience or with an electric bike stroll and you have the ideal slow day! 

Spa Weekend in a Winery 

Indulge in a luxurious spa weekend in a winery in Bordeaux. My Private French Travel offers a unique experience that combines wine tastings, spa treatments, and fine dining in one location. The vineyard setting adds an extra layer of relaxation to your stay, allowing you to unwind and recharge in the beautiful countryside. You will stay in a luxurious winery hotel and enjoy a range of spa treatments, from massages to facials, using local ingredients such as grape seed oil or grape must. You will also have the opportunity to taste the estate's wines and indulge in gourmet meals prepared by a local chef. This experience is the ultimate indulgence and perfect for those who want to combine relaxation and wine tasting. You can obviously try Caudalie, but we also suggest spa weekend in more affordable and intimate establishments in Bordeaux or Cognac. 

Food and Wine Pairing Workshop 

Enhance your dining experiences at home with My Private French Travel's food and wine pairing workshop. This workshop allows you to taste a variety of wines and learn about the flavors and aromas that complement different types of food. You will learn about the principles of food and wine pairing and how to create the perfect pairing for any meal. You will taste a range of wines, from crisp whites to full-bodied reds, and learn about the different flavor profiles and aromas.  This experience is perfect for foodies who want to deepen their understanding of wine and elevate their culinary skills. 

Exemple of food pairing workshop or cooking class : 

• caviar and dry white wine ... Caviar and white wine pairing is a classic combination that works particularly well in Bordeaux. The region's crisp white wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon, are the perfect match for the delicate flavor of caviar. The acidity of the wine cuts through the richness of the caviar, while the fruity and floral notes of the wine complement its subtle flavor. The pairing is often enjoyed as an aperitif before a meal, and many wineries in Bordeaux offer tastings that include caviar and white wine pairings. It's a luxurious and sophisticated experience that is not to be missed.
• chocolate and red wine ...Chocolate and red wine is a classic pairing that is popular among wine enthusiasts in Bordeaux. The rich, complex flavors of red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, complement the sweetness and bitterness of chocolate. The tannins in the wine also help to balance the richness of the chocolate, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. This pairing is often enjoyed as a dessert wine or after-dinner treat. Many wineries in Bordeaux offer tastings that include chocolate and red wine pairings, allowing visitors to indulge in this decadent combination. It's a delicious and indulgent experience that is not to be missed for chocolate and wine lovers.
• japanese food and bordeaux wine : Asian cuisine and Bordeaux wine may not be an obvious pairing, but the complex flavors and textures of Asian dishes can be beautifully complemented by the elegant and structured wines of Bordeaux. Bordeaux's red blends, particularly those made with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, pair well with bold and spicy Asian dishes such as Szechuan chicken or beef stir-fry. The tannins and acidity of the wine help to balance the heat and spice of the dish. For lighter Asian dishes such as sushi or Thai salads, crisp and aromatic Bordeaux whites such as Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon are the perfect match. The fruity and floral notes of the wine complement the delicate flavors of the dish. Bordeaux wines also pair well with Asian-inspired fusion dishes that combine traditional Asian ingredients with Western cooking techniques. Many restaurants in Bordeaux offer Asian-inspired dishes on their menus, making it easy to explore this exciting pairing.
• oyster and wine : the crisp and refreshing character of Bordeaux white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon complements the briny and delicate flavor of oysters. The acidity of the wine cuts through the richness of the oyster, creating a perfect balance of flavors. The mineral notes of the wine also complement the sea-like flavor of the oyster, enhancing the overall tasting experience. When pairing oysters with Bordeaux white wines, it's important to consider the specific characteristics of the wine. A dry, crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with raw oysters, while a slightly sweet Semillon complements grilled or fried oysters. The key is to choose a wine with enough acidity to cut through the brininess of the oyster, but not so much that it overpowers the delicate flavor.
• cheese and all colors of bordeaux wine: cheese is a staple of French cuisine, and the South West region of France is known for its incredible selection of cheeses. When it comes to pairing cheese with Bordeaux wines, there are many delicious options to choose from.

For hard cheeses such as Ossau-Iraty or Tome de Brebis, bold and tannic red Bordeaux blends such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are the perfect match. The tannins in the wine help to cut through the richness of the cheese, while the fruity notes of the wine complement its nutty flavor.

For softer cheeses such as Roquefort or Bleu d'Auvergne, sweet white wines such as Sauternes or Barsac are a classic pairing. The sweetness of the wine balances the saltiness of the cheese, creating a harmonious combination of flavors.

For creamy cheeses such as Boursault or Camembert, crisp and dry white Bordeaux wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or Semillon are a great match. The acidity of the wine helps to cut through the richness of the cheese, while the fruity and floral notes of the wine complement its delicate flavor.

Whether you're a fan of bold reds or sweet whites, there is a perfect Bordeaux wine to pair with the rich and flavorful cheeses of the South West region. Many wineries and cheese shops in Bordeaux offer tastings that include cheese and wine pairings, allowing you to indulge in this delicious combination.