Visit the vineyards of Saint-Émilion • Wanderlix

Are you passing through Bordeaux and want to discover the good wines of the region? Here is our guide to visit the vineyards of Saint-Emilion!

The New Aquitaine region is home to many of our national heritage. Of course, we think of the beautiful city of Bordeaux and the Arcachon basin, the Basque coast and its Jovial atmosphere, Pyrenees but also the islands Re and d Oléron , to La Rochelle or at Marais Poitevin .

Due to its immensity, we can forget some hidden riches of the region. However, oenologists or wine lovers cannot forget the name of Saint-Emilion! The capital of wine, the small medieval village is surrounded by the largest French vineyards, some having far exceeded the borders of the Hexagon.

The aim of this article is to give all the information necessary to visit the vineyards of Saint-Emilion and the ideas of visiting to discover this beautiful region.

The vineyards of Saint-Emilion, in the heart of an exceptional heritage

When one thinks of visiting the vineyards of Saint-Emilion, one imagines himself discovering landscapes with vineyards with a loss of sight. Of course, it is a little true, but it is clearly underestimated the region.

The first observation we can make is that the majority of these vineyards are located around famous castles, some being part of the heritage of our History. Moreover, what is known as the Juridiction de Saint-Emilion is classified as the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The main reason for this classification is that, despite intensive use for centuries, the wine landscape is still intact and is active until today.

Also, what is less known is that Saint-Emilion is one of the most beautiful medieval cities in France. Losing in its paved alleys is a dive in the past and places are absolutely magnificent. It is even possible to visit the catacombs of the commune. Visiting the vineyards of Saint-Emilion is therefore discovering both vineyards and an exceptional heritage.

The vineyards of Saint-Emilion, among the most famous and renowned in the world

Château Angélus, Château Figeac, Château Cheval Blanc... Visit the vineyards of Saint-Emilion is having the pleasure of passing from Grand Cru to Grand Cru since there are 82 wines classified AOC Saint-Emilion! For such a small area, this number is exceptional.

For amateurs, the region of Saint-Emilion is the Mecca of wine, where you will have the leisure to taste among the best wines of the world, with moderation of course! Region also very popular with foreigners, many local agencies have specialized in Wine Tour and you will have the embarrassment of choice.

However, it is quite possible to create one's own Wine Tour , following a specific route or going on to the adventure through our mood and our desires! So, ready to visit the vineyards of Saint-Emilion?

What to see and what to do during a visit to the vineyards of Saint-Emilion?

First, it is essential to enjoy the landscapes! Visiting the vineyards of Saint-Emilion is discovering a beautiful region. We love the superb panoramas with landscapes of vineyards with a loss of view.

Then, enjoy the visit of the great vineyards of the region. Some houses a superb heritage and centuries old castles! Speaking of heritage, the village of Saint-Emilion itself is one of the most beautiful heritages of the medieval era in France, remarkably preserved. If its streets are very lively during the summer period, it is even more appreciated during the low season, when its streets have come.

Finally, we did not forget the essentials. Yes, you will be able to taste wines among the best known and most famous in the world. The number of classified raws is so important that it is essential to make choices according to your location, time to devote to visits, or even, for connoisseurs, to grape varieties!

Visit the vineyards of Saint-Emilion: our tour tips

Our selection of vineyards in Saint-Emilion has been based on three criteria: a Grand Cru, an opportunity to visit and taste, a beautiful heritage. And of course, a vineyard located in Saint-Emilion! For example, the very famous Château Pétrus is a wine from the neighboring town of Pomerol and not from Saint-Emilion.

Château Angélus, Premier Grand Cru Classé A

For some, the Château Angélus is one of these great wines that may be enjoyed once in his life. In fact, it is one of the very great vineyards of Saint-Emilion, one of those mentioned to all visitors wishing to discover this art of oenology.

Located in a natural amphitheatre, close to Saint-Emilion, the wine estate was founded in 1782 by the Laforest family, owner of the land at the time... and still today! He owes his name Angélus to the bells of Saint-Emilion that was heard from the vineyard.

Visiting the Angélus castle estate is entering the excellence of French wine. Here, no tourist groups , we visit intimacy a magical place, steeped in technological and environmental innovation. And of course, you will have the opportunity to taste one of the best wines in France... and one of the most expensive!

Château Cheval Blanc, Premier Grand Cru Classé A

If the vineyards were companies like others, we could say that the Cheval Blanc Castle is one of the main competitors of the Angélus castle in the field of excellence. It is also an opportunity for you to visit one of the four vineyards of Saint-Emilion Premier Grand Cru Classé A, with the castle Ausone, the castle Pavie and of course the castle Angélus.

If the Château Cheval Blanc is located close to the village of Pomerol, it is well on the territory of Saint-Emilion that is located the vineyard. The vineyard acquired notoriety from 1832, when it was purchased by Jean-Jacques Ducasse. For the anecdote, the estate of Cheval Blanc has acquired many plots which belonged to the Château Figeac, which has since been "declassified" in front of its neighbour.

As with all the great wines, the visit and the tasting are done on appointment . On site, we first appreciate the intimacy of the places and the visit, and the guests take the time to explain and give you the best practical information. Then, on the architectural side, it is one of the most beautiful vineyards dominated by its imposing castle. Finally, it is clearly one of the best wines you will have the opportunity to taste!

Château-Figeac, Premier Grand Cru Classé B

Speaking of Château-Figeac, here he is! If this vineyard of Saint-Emilion has been “declassified” in front of Cheval Blanc, there is still a world reference for Bordeaux wine and red wine!

On site, we love this intimate atmosphere and the welcome reserved for visitors. With a little luck, you will even be welcomed by the owner of the place or a member of his family! On the programme, visit the vineyards, cellars, history of the winery and of course the tasting of this very famous wine.

The most of Château-Figeac is its heritage. At all points of view, it is one of the most beautiful wine castles in the region of Bordeaux and it is worth almost a visit to it alone!

Château Beau-Séjour Bécot, Premier Grand Cru Classé B

In 1969, the Bécot family bought the estate of Château Beau-Séjour, a former vineyard of Saint-Emilion located near the village of the same name. Having the particularity of being located on a limestone terroir, the Bécot family has made this wine estate is a Premier Grand Cru Classé B de Saint-Emilion.

At Château Beau-Séjour Bécot, we have the culture of excellence from generation to generation, tradition and respect for the environment. It is also a sustainable domain.

As with all the Premier Grands Crus Classifieds, the visit of the vineyard and the tasting are done on appointment . Fully renovated and modernized, it does not shelter a remarkable building like Château-Figeac or Château Cheval Blanc.

Jacobin Convent, Grand Cru Classé

The convent of the Jacobins is one of the most important vineyards of Saint-Emilion. The site is separated between the convent in itself and the closed Jacobins.

Located in the heart of the village of Saint-Emilion, the convent is a former 600-year-old religious building that is today the "seat" of this Grand Cru Classé. In addition to a sublime decor, we find the cellars and barrels, with the possibility to taste this famous wine!

This vineyard is one of the most accessible vintages to the public, with many visiting themes (brunch, tasting, wine tours...).

Château Franc Mayne, Grand Cru Classé

We finish our selection with this superb visit of a vineyard of Saint-Emilion, the Château Franc Mayne. Located a few hectometers from the village of Saint-Emilion, this winery is renowned for its traditional techniques, including hand harvesting, and its history.

The domain is indeed located on the old Gallo-Roman track and a post relay, still present, marks this passage. The architecture of the building is absolutely sublime and is one of the highlights of the visit to this vineyard. The rest of the visit is more traditional, between visiting vineyards and wine cellars and wine tasting.

Ideas of routes to visit the vineyards of Saint-Emilion

These routes are neither exhaustive nor mandatory. They respond first and foremost to the visiting advice we have just completed. You can quite choose other vineyards according to tastes and colors!

If we advise to be vehiculated in order not to waste too much time between vineyards, it is quite possible to visit our selection on foot or by bike! Indeed, barely 5 kilometres separate the village of Saint-Emilion from the farthest from the five selected vineyards, Château Cheval Blanc.

One day

With its 82 classified wines, it is quite impossible to visit them all during the same day or even a weekend. Especially if you enjoy every visit...

From Saint-Emilion, start directly with the visit of the Jacobin Convent located in the village. Then go to the beautiful estate of Château Cheval Blanc or its neighbour of Château-Figeac. It is not advisable to do both the same day. Those who love beautiful stones will choose Château-Figeac, those wishing to taste a Premier Grand Cru Classé A will prefer Château Cheval Blanc.

Then, before you go to the Château Angélus, if you have a small hollow and want to discover a refined cuisine of the region, stop by La Table de Catusseau , a famous restaurant located on the neighboring town of Pomerol.

After having eaten well (but not too drunk if possible!), go to the sublime estate of Château Angélus for tasting one of the best wines of France. If you have time and envy, take the direction of Château Franc Mayne to finish your journey by enjoying the view from the small hill overlooking the vineyard.

A weekend

For those who want to do more or enjoy the region, you can quite spend a weekend visiting the vineyards of Saint-Emilion. We recommend staying either in Libourne or directly in Saint-Emilion.

You can organize your weekend first by enjoying the rich heritage of the beautiful medieval village of Saint-Emilion. He deserves almost a day alone! Enjoy strolling through these little streets, having lunch on the terrace and, at the turn of a few lanes, visiting the Jacobin Convent and other vineyards such as the Clos des Menuts or Guadet Castle.

The next day, take the direction of the village of Pomerol located a few kilometers away. Saint-Emilion will not give you a big eye if you spend time on the beautiful estate of Château Pétrus, one of the most famous wines in France and the world! For lunch, we give you an appointment again La Table de Catusseau before taking the direction of the neighbouring areas of Cheval Blanc and Château Figeac. To finish the day, we always recommend the superb panorama of Franc Mayne.

If you still have a little time on the next day, go to the Château Angélus and, if the driver is the one who doesn't drink, go back to your home or hotel!

Where to stay to visit the vineyards of Saint-Emilion?

Saint-Emilion

What better than staying in Saint-Emilion to visit the vineyards of the same name? Here's our selection.

Elegant and comfortable apartment in the heart of Saint-Emilion

Located in the historic centre of Saint-Emilion, this beautiful apartment is tastefully decorated. In addition, the places are perfectly equipped, making it an ideal accommodation for a group of four people coming to the region!

Cozy house in the heart of Saint-Emilion

Ideally located in the heart of the village, this Airbnb is a beautiful house with a neat and original decoration that can accommodate up to 8 people. The places are quiet, bright and very well equipped. The most of this accommodation is the presence of a real private spa with jacuzzi!

Libourne

You can also stay in Libourne to visit the vineyards of Saint-Emilion. By choosing Libourne, you will be in a more affordable city, close to Bordeaux and other vineyards. However, you may be less in “the vineyard atmosphere”.

Many housing Airbnb are available and you will necessarily find your happiness there! Otherwise, you can call one Compare hotels to benefit from the best offers.