Wine And Tutored Tastings
Intimidated by wine?
Wanting to develop your knowledge?
With the vineyards of Blaye, the Medoc, St Emilion, Sauternes and Cognac only a sip, slurp and sniff away let Giles help you understand the Bordeaux wine industry.
He has the Wine and Spirit Education Trust Diploma (only two more years of studies for Master of Wine .... hard study, so maybe one day!) and a score of books to help you in the world of wine.
If it's understanding the terminology, what to read on the label or any local recommendations worth sampling or visiting then let him guide you through the maze!!
Track him down and ask him your questions. Alternatively, a sit down, slightly more formal tutored tasting to expand your knowledge and develop your palate can be arranged.
Let us organise and host for you one of our tasting afternoons/early evenings.
Previous tutored tastings have ranged from a 'Tour de France' (taking in the major vineyards regions of France) or a more detailed look at wines in our near vicinity (Blaye and Bourg) to a more comprehensive guide through the Grand Vin de Bordeaux. Along the way we discuss the differences between French wines and other regions, particularly those of the 'New World', and the reasons for the differences.
Any tasting can be tailor-made to suit your requirements and budget.
Please e-mail for further details and prices.
Other wine events
Late March/early April each year is LE PRINTEMPS DES VINS
For a small entrance fee, you can take the opportunity to sample (and purchase) the wines of local producers within the Citadelle de Blaye. Around 80 estates are represented and the winemakers are more than happy to spend time chatting about their wines. The Maison de Vin also provides various food & wine demonstrations, boat trips and other workshops. The entrance fee covers the whole weekends activities and includes a complimentary tasting glass.
28 June - 1 July, in Europe's largest city square, is FETE LE VIN
For a small entrance fee you get the chance to taste your way around each of the 8 major wine regions of Bordeaux and party into the night if you wish.
For more info visit www.bordeaux-fete-le-vin.com
2013 sees the biennial Bordeaux international wine trade fair - VINEXPO
If you were interested in renting our gites so you can attend or work at the show, then let us organise & cook your evening meals and breakfasts.
Please contact us to make all necessary arrangements.
Walking And Cycling
Enjoy the great outdoors Take the opportunity to sightsee on quiet roads and tracks
Why not bring your bikes!
We can provide information on the local cycle routes or detailed maps if you just want to explore.
Keen cyclists can get further afield
The departmente of Gironde has a vast network of sign-posted cycle routes.
Information is available.
Information about bike hire is available @
Those who like Country Walks There are many local walks ranging from 2 to 20km.
They are clearly marked with posts and are very easy to follow.
The countryside is very pretty and there is a plethora of flora and fauna to see. Why not come in the spring when the weather is pleasant for walking, or in the autumn when the harvest is in progress?
We have lots of detailed maps and rambling guides to lend to guests.
Bird Watchers
Those who like Bird Watching Seen within 2 minutes from the house by one guest has been:
Golden Oriole Honey Buzzard Cirl Bunting Serin Melodious Warbler
Black Redstart Lesser & Great Spotted & Green Woodpeckers
Red Backed Shrike Bonelli's Warbler Hoopoe
As well as a host of common species
There is also the Ornithological Park an hour away at Le Teich, Arcachon
