Other Experiences Castillon – Côtes de Bordeaux

Castillon ‑ Côtes de Bordeaux is a red‑wine appellation on the right bank of the Dordogne, just east of Saint‑Émilion, in Gironde, southwestern France. It forms part of the “Côtes de Bordeaux” grouping, and while its terroir shares many features with neighbouring Saint‑Émilion, it tends to produce wines of excellent value backed by committed growers. The landscape is composed of rolling hills, valleys, and plateaus, often with good southern exposure which helps ripen grapes in the marginal seasons.

Tourism in Castillon ‑ Côtes de Bordeaux is appealing for those who want wine visits without the crowds of some more famous Bordeaux appellations. There are many small estates, family‑run wineries, and wine‑tourism offices such as the Maison des Vins in Castillon‑la‑Bataille, which offers tastings, wine sales, and information.Vineyard walks, château visits, tastings, and sometimes themed events (e.g. open cellar days) are typical. The gentle hills and views over the Dordogne and neighbouring vineyards make it scenic. Proximity to Saint‑Émilion means day trips are possible.

Local gastronomy goes hand in hand with the wines: robust red Bordeaux blends call for hearty fare. Think roasted or grilled meats (lamb, beef), game, rich stews, and charcuterie. Also seasonal vegetables, mushrooms, and produce from the local farms complement the wines. Cheese from the region or somewhat richer cheeses (blue cheeses or aged cow cheeses) work well with the tannic structure of many Castillon wines. For lighter food pairings, dishes easing into autumn work especially well.

The red wines of Castillon ‑ Côtes de Bordeaux are dominated by Merlot (≈ 70 %), followed by Cabernet Franc (~ 20 %), with Cabernet Sauvignon and sometimes smaller amounts of Malbec permitted. Meatier, richer blends from deeper clay‑limestone soils can produce structured, ageworthy wines. Fruit aromas of plum, dark berry, and sometimes notes of leather, undergrowth, or spice appear. Tannins are generally firm, with the best wines aging 4‑10 years.

Castillon lies in a temperate maritime climate, with continental influence because of its distance from the Atlantic. Summers are warm though moderated by rainfall; autumns are crucial for ripening, and the slope‑exposed vineyards benefit from good heat accumulation. Certain parts, like the plateaus, are on limestone which helps drainage and heat retention. Spring can hold risk of frost; vineyard management and timing are important. Harvest generally takes place in late summer to early autumn, depending on vintage.

If you visit, consider staying in or around Castillon‑la‑Bataille which provides a good base. Leave time to tour multiple estates, especially smaller ones to appreciate diversity. Pair wine visits with exploring nearby Saint‑Émilion to compare styles. Plan your trip for autumn around harvest when there's more activity in the vineyards, or late spring when the vineyards are lush and blooming. Make arrangements in advance for tastings at smaller producers. Also combine wine with local culture and history — the Battle of Castillon (Hundred Years War) is part of local identity. Hiking, local markets, and meals at countryside auberges help round the trip.

The average price of a wine tasting with winery visit in Castillon – Côtes de Bordeaux is around €25.50. Depending on the experience, prices range from €6 to €45. Booking in advance ensures availability and the best prices.

Here are the top wineries to visit in Castillon – Côtes de Bordeaux:

• Château Pillebois
• Vignobles Meynard
• Clos Vieux Rochers
• Château La Rose Monturon
• Chateau Clarisse
• Château Guibeau
• Château de Pressac
• Chateau Haut Sarpe

Here are the best wine tastings to book in Castillon – Côtes de Bordeaux:

• Discovery Tour & Tasting at Château de Pressac
• Visit & Gourmet Wine Tasting experience at Vignobles Meynard
• Tour of the estate, Wine & Cheese Tasting at Vignobles Meynard
• Tour and Wine tasting at Château Pillebois in Côtes du Castillon
• Winemaker's Workshop "The Secrets of Barrel Aging" at Château La Rose Monturon
• Vineyard Tour & Wine tasting experience at Clos Vieux Rochers
• Visit & Barrel Wine Tasting at Château Clarisse
• 3 wines, 2 appellations: Wine tasting at Château Clarisse