Gran Vin Homer in Bordeaux

Of course, the Homer Gran Vin Tour could not be complete without time in Bordeaux. First stop, St.Emilion, which was one of our favourite places during our first summer in Homer. It, along with Pomerol next door, is one of the most beautiful wine regions in all of France. We enjoy cycling or riding the scooter around the vineyards. We did a great cellar tour and tasting at Soutard. We travelled along the Gironde river to Blaye; a boring town actually, but we had to test the theory that lesser known regions in Bordeaux can produce good wines at a fraction of Medoc prices. The number of estates is just unbelievable. At the Maison d’ Vin we saw a chap buy five cases of wine, each bottle different and each one costing around five Euros. I guess he takes them home and tastes until he finds the estates he likes! We spent three days in the city of Bordeaux and then headed up to Medoc. It’s as flat as a pancake, so not that pretty but the Chateaux are stunning. We spent time in Margaux and Paulliac and tasted some Premier Grand Crus and yes, they are really that good. The Atlantic side of Medoc is also flat and pine forested and dotted with beach resorts and plenty of campsites. We stayed in Carcans and Archachon, a nice place with a great seafront and the usual offering of  outdoor bars and fish restaurants; catering to mainly local holidaymakers.