Excursion Exclusive lunch at château giscours tour at Bordeaux

Indulge your senses with the exquisite beauty and flavours of the Médoc area during this full-day culinary and wine excursion.

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour drive to Château Giscours, located in the famed Margaux appellation, part of the Médoc area. The vineyards of Médoc, north of Bordeaux City, concentrate a lot of the flagship wine estates along its wine château road. Here lie the prosperous Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Latour, Château Mouton Rothschild and Château Margaux.

Château Giscours, part of the Medoc wine estate, has a long history dating from the 14th century. Its wine was classified in 1855, and believed to have been served to King Louis XIV in the 17th century. Salvador Dali was fond of saying, "He who knows how to taste does not drink wine, he savours secrets…secrets such as those that a glass of Château Giscours will whisper to the taste buds of lovers of wines."

Since 1995, a Dutch businessman, Eric Albada Jelgersma, took over management and set about meticulously renovating the vineyard and buildings to make this prestigious estate fully worthy of its ranking, the third Grand Cru Classé, in 1855. Aged in high quality oak barrels, this mostly Cabernet- and Merlot-based wine acquires its complexity over a period of months, subtly combining aromas of dark fruits and spices with the tannins in the wood to reach a sublime balance. The complex blending procedure, an important stage in the production of this great wine, requires the most advanced skills of the cellar-master and their team. Robert Parker gave the 2009 vintage a very respectable 94 points.

Upon arrival, take a guided tour of this beautiful and historic property, and its cellars. Afterward, proceed for an aperitif, followed by an elegant, four-course lunch accompanied by several of the château's excellent wines. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 1.5-hour drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour requires advance booking one month prior to the start of the cruise. Cancellations received after this deadline will incur penalty charges of up to 100%, which will be billed to your shipboard account.

This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and in the wine cellars. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility, but is not wheelchair-accessible. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. The tour sequence may vary. Guests must be at least 21 years old to be served alcoholic beverages.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Le Verdon, Médoc Vineyards, Margaux Appellation, Wine Chateau Road and Estates, Château Giscours, Guided Tour, Four-Course Lunch with Wines

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