The Bordeaux Wine Magazine 2025 October issue by the Bordeaux Wine Experience, the leading Bordeaux Wine Tour Company
|
|
|
|
This magazine was shared with you as a member
of our exclusive circle of Bordeaux wine enthusiasts.
|
Incredible Harvest Experiences, Inspiring Friends in Biodynamics, and Toasting to the Future
|
|
|
A Personal Note From Michael,
|
|
|
The 2025 harvest is in the books, and it’s been an absolute blast!
We are still buzzing from the excitement, the laughter, and the pure joy of sharing this year’s harvest with our guests.
We rolled up our sleeves, got a little dirt on our boots, and celebrated every moment.
From early-morning grape picking to long, laughter-filled lunches that stretched into Sauternes-drenched afternoons…
Our guests could feel it in every Chateau we visited: the vibe was simply contagious.
And then, another unforgettable Bordeaux moment, sharing a 1975 Imperial Mouton Rothschild with close friends and family.
The kind of bottle that stops time, sparks stories, and reminds you why we love what we do. Again, what a harvest, what a blast!
|
|
Michael with close friends and family
celebrating the 2025 Harvest with a
1975 Imperial Mouton Rothschild
|
|
|
The final grapes are coming in…
Early signs from the 2025 vintage are seriously exciting. Showing depth, freshness, and balance.
There is a sense of optimism and pride that this vintage will be something truly special.
As our guests watched the final grapes come in, I couldn’t help but think: this is what Bordeaux is all about.
Friendship, passion, and a deep respect for the heritage and artistry of Bordeaux winemaking.
Speaking of passion, heritage, and artistry, in this issue I will share a story of one of my favorite Bordeaux legends.
|
|
Early signs from the 2025 vintage are seriously exciting
|
|
|
|
|
A Superb, Fun, and Exclusive Wine Vacation
|
|
|
Michael and Maud love
to welcome you in Bordeaux
|
|
Uncork the extraordinary, and join us for an unforgettable experience in Bordeaux!
|
|
Discover Youtube Channel:
|
|
|
A Biodynamic Bordeaux: Our Visit to Chateau Pontet-Canet
|
|
|
Chateau Pontet-Canet: Horses, No Tractors; No Chemicals, just a Deep Respect for Nature’s Rhythms
|
|
|
Alfred Tesseron Describes the Magic
Over the past few weeks, so many of our guests have asked about biodynamic wines.
What does it mean? Why are more top estates embracing it? And most importantly, can you taste the difference?
Few estates illustrate this better than Chateau Pontet-Canet, where our friend and owner, Alfred Tesseron, is defining and redefining what is possible in Pauillac, in Bordeaux, and beyond.
Our guests and I had the privilege of spending time with Alfred during the harvest, the pioneer of biodynamics in Bordeaux…
And living proof that when you work with nature, magic happens.
|
|
Alfred Tesseron, owner of Chateau Pontet-Canet
talking shop with Michael and his Guests
|
|
|
No Rush, No Stress, Just Harmony
The moment you step onto their property, you sense something different.
The vines are alive with energy; the horses quietly working between rows, the vineyard team moving with purpose and calm.
Alfred, ever the visionary, told me (while trying to hold back his smile): “You don’t fight nature here. You dance with her.“
He continued, “You learn a lot by observing the vine, by having patience, tasting, testing, sometimes failing, but always improving.“
That process, he believes, “changes the character of the wine in ways you can taste.“
A truly humbling experience.
|
|
One of the most fascinating tools
in biodynamic viticulture is the Horn Manure
|
|
|
Vibrant, Pure, and Soulful
With intuition and precision guiding each move, Alfred explains that biodynamics is less about mysticism and more about creating perfect balance in the vineyard.
Between soil, vine, and sky — and fueled by a fierce dedication to perfection — the results are unmistakable: wines that are lively, pure, and soulful.
Tasting a sample straight from the vat, the 2025 Pontet-Canet was already electric: vibrant, precise, and full of life.
It carries that rare combination of power and grace that defines the truly unforgettable Pauillac, leaving a lasting impression long before it reaches the bottle.
Surrounded by their oak barrels and herbal tinctures, I couldn’t help but think of how much their philosophy mirrors what we love most about the Bordeaux Wine Experience…
A respect for authenticity, connections, and the people behind the wine.
|
|
Michael and Violaine Figon-Borel,
Head of VIP Services
|
|
|
So… What Is Biodynamic Wine, Really?
|
|
|
Think of biodynamics as organic farming, taken to the next level.
No chemicals. No shortcuts. Just a deep respect for nature’s rhythms. Here’s the gist:
The vineyard is treated like a living organism. Every part, from soil to sky, is connected.
Natural composts and herbal teas replace fertilizers and pesticides. And one of the more fascinating tools… yup, horn manure.
The lunar calendar guides key vineyard work — pruning, planting, harvesting — to stay in sync with natural cycles.
Horses instead of tractors in many vineyards, to keep the soil alive and uncompressed.
|
|
Violaine Figon-Borel
discussing biodynamics with our guests
during an exclusive visit
|
|
|
The result?
Wines that feel alive: vibrant, expressive, and deeply rooted in their terroir.
And while biodynamics may sound mystical, the proof is in the glass.
Estates like Pontet-Canet, Palmer, and Climens (all personal favorites of mine) have shown that biodynamic wines can be among Bordeaux’s most elegant and enduring.
Biodynamics began in 1924 with Austrian philosopher Rudolf Steiner, and his visionary approach continues to guide estates like Pontet-Canet, shaping the vibrant wines we enjoy today.
And inspiring the next generation of Bordeaux vintages to come.
|
|
Pontet-Canet:
A Truly Unique & Beautiful Chateau
|
|
|
Join us for the 2026 Harvest Tour
As the 2025 wines begin their journey from grape to greatness, we’re already dreaming ahead to 2026.
Our 2026 Bordeaux Wine Experiences will bring even more behind-the-scenes access.
With intimate tastings, unforgettable meals, and the kind of authentic, human moments that make Bordeaux feel like home.
And yes, we can’t wait to take you back to places like Pontet-Canet, where the passion for biodynamics continues to shape the future of great Bordeaux.
Because that’s what the Bordeaux Wine Experience is all about. Not just tasting extraordinary wines, but living the stories behind them.
That’s the dream. It’s the wine, the food, and the characters.
Looking forward to seeing you soon!
|
|
Michael and Maud
Uncorking the Extraordinary
|
|
|
Our 2026 Bordeaux Wine Tour Program
|
Tasting all five First Growtha plus Yquem is an unforgettable experience
|
|
|
The Bordeaux Grand Cru Tour
|
|
|
Venues typically inaccessible to the public
|
|
This is definitely one of the most exclusive tours that we offer. Join the Bordeaux Grand Cru Tour, for an experience of pure opulence, featuring exquisite cuisine and exceptional wines.
Savor exclusive chateau-meals for a truly gorgeous, culinary experience.
The gastronomic delights are nothing short of extraordinary, featuring exclusive meals set in remarkable venues typically inaccessible to the public.
|
|
|
As if that weren’t enough, the tour presents a rare opportunity to taste all five First Growths of over 20 years old, plus the Superior First Growth Chateau d’Yquem of over 30 years old!
This tour offers exclusive dining, exceptional wines, and aged vintages, creating an unforgettable journey into Bordeaux’s culinary and wine excellence.
What makes it even more special is the inclusion of older vintages, adding a unique dimension to the wine-tasting experience.
It’s no wonder that the Bordeaux Grand Cru Tour has earned its status as a beloved favorite.
|
The Bordeaux Grand Cru Harvest Tour
|
|
|
The Bordeaux Grand Cru Harvest Tour
Behold one of our most exclusive tours, a wine lover’s dream come true in the heart of Bordeaux.
This ultimate wine tour promises an unparalleled experience, setting the bar for perfection.
Harvest time in Bordeaux is a thrilling period, filled with anticipation and vibrant energy in the vineyards.
|
|
Experience Bordeaux in full harvest swing
|
|
|
Prepare to be amazed as you savor the exquisite taste of all five First Growths of over 20 years old plus the distinguished Superior First Growth Chateau d’Yquem of over 30 years old!
The tour doesn’t stop there; it extends to include the best offerings from Saint Emilion and Pomerol, featuring many older vintages.
Elevating the experience further are the outstanding meals meticulously curated at exceptional venues rarely accessible to the public.
This blend of exceptional tastings and exclusive dining makes this tour highly sought-after, offering Bordeaux enthusiasts the ultimate wine, culinary, and harvest season experience. season.
It’s no surprise that the Bordeaux Grand Cru Harvest Tour has become a cherished favorite.
|
|
|
2026 Bordeaux Wine Tour Schedule
|
|
|
What makes our Bordeaux Wine and Culinary Tours so special?
- Exclusive Touring Experience:
Limited to just six double/twin rooms and one single, our tours prioritize intimacy and personalized attention for a truly exclusive experience.
- Effortless and Carefree Travel:
Enjoy carefree and seamless travel in Bordeaux as we take care of every detail, ensuring a hassle-free journey from start to finish.
- Taste all 5 First Growths and Château d’Yquem!
Savor all five First Growths and Château Yquem, providing an extraordinary opportunity to taste some of Bordeaux’s most prestigious wines.
- Expert and Humourous Guidance:
Benefit from the expertise and humor of Michael and Maud and their dedicated team, ensuring an informative and enjoyable tour.
- Gourmet Dining at Exclusive Venues:
Savor gourmet meals at exclusive Bordeaux châteaux and private venues for a unique culinary experience.
- An entertaining concise cooking class:
Join a fun, concise cooking class to master culinary techniques and taste Bordeaux’s finest wines.
- Chateau Accommodation:
Rest in comfort at an air-conditioned, 1872 chateau, offering an elegant and historic setting for a truly authentic Bordeaux experience.
- Luxury Transportation:
Explore Bordeaux in comfort with our air-conditioned luxury motor coach throughout the tour.
- Small Group, Big Fun:
Enjoy fine food, great wines, and fun in an intimate small group—making your Bordeaux adventure truly memorable
- Grand Cru Farewell Dinner:
Culminate your journey with a Grand Cru Farewell Dinner featuring an array of Grand Cru wines, including Chateau Margaux 1985 and the prestigious Chateau d’Yquem of over 30 years old!
Discover Bordeaux beyond the ordinary—exceptional wines, gourmet cuisine, and intimate group charm.
|
|
|
The ultimate destination to enjoy all five First Growths plus Yquem
in a relaxed and informal atmosphere
|
|
|
The Bordeaux Wine Experience
at le Domaine de Coulon
2, chemin de Meydieu
33360 Latresne (BORDEAUX), France
Website : www.BXWINEX.com
|
|
Call us:
+33 683 44 89 41
(These lines go directly to our Chateaux in Bordeaux so please remember that we’re on Paris time!)
|
|
|
Copyright 2025 by The Bordeaux Wine Experience. All rights reserved. The content, design and graphical elements of this Magazine are copyrighted. The Bordeaux Wine Experience is a company specializing in wine and culinary tours in the Bordeaux region for an English speaking international clientele.
|
|
|
|
