Our journey through Bordeaux’s Haut-Médoc wine region began in Blanquefort, following the scenic D2 road along the Gironde River. This historic route winds past celebrated villages—Macau, Margaux, Saint-Julien, and Pauillac—each known for producing world-class wines.
Every commune in the Médoc has its own Maison du Vin (wine information center), making it easy for travelers to learn more and plan tastings. The Médoc comprises eight appellations: Médoc, Saint-Estèphe, Haut-Médoc, Pauillac, Saint-Julien, Listrac-Médoc, Moulis, and Margaux—each producing wines with the AOC designation.
We paused in Margaux to visit Château Ferrière (see our earlier post) and enjoyed lunch at Le Savoie in the village. While the meal was modest, the village atmosphere and nearby estates offered plenty to savor.
The 1855 Bordeaux Classification included 60 Grand Cru Classé wines from the Médoc, cementing the region’s reputation as a cornerstone of fine wine. Today, these estates remain highlights for visitors traveling through Haut-Médoc.
Pauillac visiter center with a giant unlabelled bottle.
Along the way, we stopped briefly at Chateau Pichon Baron, Pauillac.
Built in 1851 in Renaissance style, the château’s symmetry and stone façade give it the look of a fairy-tale fortress.
With two turrets and reflecting pools that—on a sunny day—it resembles a surreal Magritte-like painting.
The wine of Pichon Baron was recognized in the 1855 classification as Second Growths (Deuxièmes Crus).
We also walked in the grounds of Chateau Beychevelle, Saint-Julien. Beychevelle’s emblem: a ship lowering its sails, symbolies respect to the powerful Duke of Épernon, who once owned the estate.
Missed the tour but loved the garden. The estate’s architecture reflects classical French elegance, with balanced proportions, and manicured gardens.
The wine of Beychevelle was recognized in the 1855 classification as Fourth Growths (Quartrièmes Crus).
Rows of vineyards and elegant châteaux stretch across the horizon at every turn.
Even when the photo’s exact location is forgotten, the scene is unmistakably that of les vignobles bordelais.