Wine Tours Southern Gironde

The Southern Gironde region, or Gironde du Sud, is a vibrant corner of Bordeaux where rivers, forests, and vineyards converge in a natural mosaic. Nestled along the Garonne and Gironde estuaries, this area includes prestigious appellations such as Graves, Sauternes‑Barsac, Côtes de Bordeaux Saint‑Macaire, Loupiac, Cadillac, and Sainte‑Croix‑du‑Mont. Wine lovers encounter a rich tapestry of terroirs ranging from skeletal limestone slopes to lush riverbanks, producing everything from elegant dry reds to golden botrytised whites. The region reflects both the convivial spirit of Southwest France and Bordeaux wine excellence in harmony.

Exploring Southern Gironde through its wine estates is an immersive and sensory experience. You can tour family-run châteaux and grand crus classés, including those within the Sauternes‑Barsac sweet wine zone and the dry whites of Cadillac. Guided tastings reveal the inner workings from vine to glass, while vineyard walks or bicycle routes offer scenic immersion in varied terroirs. Several estates are recognised for sustainable practices and wine tourism awards, showcasing both ecological commitment and hospitality. Wine tourism here blends tasting, storytelling, and picturesque wine landscapes seamlessly.

Southern Gironde cuisine complements its wines with bold flavours rooted in the Southwest. Sauternes and Loupiac sweet wines match beautifully with foie gras, fruit tartlets or rich desserts, enhancing their honeyed complexity. The dry whites of Cadillac and Saint‑Macaire pair elegantly with seafood, shellfish from the estuary, or creamy freshwater fish dishes. Reds from Graves and Côtes de Bordeaux Saint‑Macaire mingle with grilled meats, duck or game stews and local charcuterie. Wine estates often provide cheese and charcuterie boards or local picnic baskets, making each tasting a gastronomic discovery.

The grape lineup in Southern Gironde includes both classic Bordeaux varieties and botrytised specialties. Reds commonly feature Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, especially in Graves and Saint‑Macaire blends. Sweet whites from Sauternes‑Barsac, Loupiac and Cadillac rely on Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle, with noble rot imparting intense sweetness, depth and complexity. Producers here skilfully balance richly textured dessert wines with structured dry whites or approachable reds, depending on appellation and climate conditions.

Spring and early summer in Southern Gironde see vineyards vibrant with budding vines and flowering acacia. These months are ideal for winery visits, vineyard walks and bike routes through lush landscapes. The grape harvest usually arrives in September and October, marking the time for sweet-wine picking and botrytis selection; estates open for seasonal tastings and cellar tours. Winter brings quiet charm to the region’s troglodyte cellars, ideal for intimate tastings of age‑worthy Sauternes and Graves reserves. Each season offers a distinct flavour of the region’s rhythm.

Begin your Southern Gironde adventure in the town of Bazas or Langon and branch out to explore vineyards in Bordeaux’s southern flank. Visit a Grand Cru Classé like Château Couhins in Graves for a guided tasting and garden tour that reflects sustainable wine growing practices. Sample botrytised sweet wines in Cadillac or Loupiac and enjoy local markets in historic villages for regional produce. Combine wine visits with bicycle excursions through forested paths to riverside estates in Côtes de Bordeaux Saint‑Macaire. This blend of culture, gastronomy, nature and wine promises an unforgettable journey.

The average price of a wine tasting with winery visit in Southern Gironde is around €16.50. Depending on the experience, prices range from €8 to €25. Booking in advance ensures availability and the best prices.

Here are the top wineries to visit in Southern Gironde:

• Château Ferran
• Château Cazebonne
• Maison du Berneuilh
• CHATEAU TOURTEAU CHOLLET
• Château Dauphiné-Rondillon - Vignobles Darriet
• Vieux Château Gaubert
• Château de Malle
• Château La Tour Blanche

Here are the best wine tastings to book in Southern Gironde:

• Vineyard tour & Tasting at Château Cazebonne
• Loupiac Vineyard Discovery at Chateau Dauphiné Rondillon & Tasting of 5 wines
• Visit & Wine tasting at Vieux Château Gaubert in Graves
• Wine tasting workshop "Spirit of the 2 banks" at Château Tourteau Chollet
• Premium Bordeaux Wine tasting at Château de Berneuilh
• Wine tasting workshop "Spirit of Graves" at Château Tourteau Chollet
• Private Heritage Tour at Château de Malle in Sauternes
• Heritage Tour at Château de Malle in Sauternes