Issue No. 14

The next day, we anchor near Lamarque,
in the heart of the Medoc wine region.
The soil is a good mix of gravel, sand and
clay perfect for red grape varieties,
producing high quality full bodied reds,
what we Brits used to call claret.
On my way to Pauillac my ride takes me
past many famous wineries but I’m
saving my tasting for the famous
Chateau Margaux in the opposite
direction. Instead I content myself with a
coffee and croissant on the delightful
promenade facing the river and watch
the sailors disembark in the marina.
Another 20kms later, I’m in the town of
Margaux and make my way to the
Chateau. It’s an attractive 18th century
Neo-Classical villa in extensive gardens
but I’m disappointed to find that visits
are by appointment only.
That night we dock in the heart of
Bordeaux, sailing past the city’s newest
tourist attraction the Cite du Vin. It rises
upwards like a giant inflatable toy, its
circular tower all gold striped, resting on
a shiny metallic base.
The inspiration for the shape of the
building is said to be a humble carafe,
coupled with the swirl of wine in a tasting
glass and it’s half museum, half theme
park. Interactivity is the key and a special
iphone-like device guides you through
every aspect of the history and actuality
of wine making across the world.
Best of all, on the top floor, you can
choose a glass of wine, whilst enjoying a
stunning view of the city.
I get on my bike and cycle out of
Bordeaux on a disused railway line,
totally empty of traffic. There are no
vineyards here, just trees and swamp,
and it makes a nice change in the
landscape.
Pictures: top right