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18/08/2025

Small in size but towering in reputation, **Pomerol** is one of the crown jewels of Bordeaux’s Right Bank—a village whose name is synonymous with richness, depth, and some of the world’s most coveted Merlot-based wines. While there’s no official classification here (so no "Grand Cru" or "Premier Cru"), the wines speak for themselves, and a visit to Pomerol offers a front-row seat to quiet excellence.

For a grounded and authentic tasting experience, visit **Clos René**, one of Pomerol’s oldest family-run estates, where traditional methods yield wines of deep character and charm. Just nearby, **Château Sainte-Marie** offers a warm welcome and beautifully structured Merlot that reflects the soul of the appellation. And don’t miss **Le Clos du Beau-père**, imported by *The Other Bordeaux*—a small-production estate crafting supple, elegant reds that offer exceptional value and true Pomerol expression.

Dining in the region is intimate and exceptional. Just minutes away in Libourne, **Restaurant La Table de Catusseau** offers refined local cuisine with an excellent Bordeaux wine list. For a relaxed yet memorable lunch, **L’Atelier de Candale** in nearby Saint-Laurent-des-Combes pairs sweeping vineyard views with seasonal dishes designed to complement Right Bank reds.

Stay at **Château Hôtel Grand Barrail**, a luxurious 19th-century estate surrounded by vines, featuring a spa and gourmet restaurant.

Beyond the cellar, explore the cobbled streets and heritage of **Saint-Émilion**, just a few kilometers away, or cycle through the undulating vineyards that shape this iconic landscape. In Pomerol, the pace is slow, the wines are deep, and the experience is nothing short of profound.

https://www.latabledecatusseau.fr/en/menus/
https://mtdecoster.com/menu/
https://www.grand-barrail.com/
https://chateausaintemariepomerol.fr/en/home/

31/07/2025

A big thank you to The Other Bordeaux customer Will Morony (writer) and wife Susan (photographer) for this outstanding account of their recent trip to the Loire and the suggestions that I know will be of great interest and practical use for the wider TOB community. A liquid gift of appreciation is coming your way, Susan and Will! Thank you. Here is their account:

"Our week in the Loire Valley.
My wife and I had a great week in the Loire Valley in May 2025. We chose Amboise as our base and that worked well for us.
We used AirBNB to book a 16th century gîte called Gîte des Martinets et son coin de verdure. It is located on the island in the middle of the River Loire, opposite the castle, so there were fabulous views (day and night) from the river bank just 20 metres from our door. The bridge to the main town was only a few metres away as well, so all in all a very good location.

Restaurants.
These are places we are happy to recommend.
La Fourchette in Amboise. https://www.facebook.com/lafourchette37/ There was clear evidence of some imagination in the kitchen that was matched by friendly service in what was obviously a family venture.
Les Hautes Roches in Rochecorbon (near Vouvray). https://www.leshautesroches.com/en/
It is a Relais et Château hotel, so quite upmarket, but we were very happy to have the €38 menu. Brilliant location, good service and food.
Le Shaker (Amboise), https://le-shaker-amboise.eatbu.com/?lang=en #
Literally 40m away from our apartment, on the banks of the Loire. More a bar than a restaurant, we sat outside with the river and town in front of us on a gorgeous evening for a light dinner. [Photo of the delicious spread by Susan taken from Le Shaker].

Amboise town.
There is a compact old centre that is good to walk around, if a bit touristic in places (e.g., near the chateau). We found the fromageur [cheese merchant] in one of the main drags very helpful, and the nearby butcher was good.
Clos Lucé, Leonardo da Vinci’s home for the last few years of his life is worth a visit to see the models of his inventions and the beautiful and extensive park-like gardens.

Châteaux of the Loire Valley.
There are many. We chose the first two on the basis of location while the third was targetted.
Château de Chenonceau. Lovely formal gardens. The Renaissance château is built over water – La Cher.
Château de Chaumont had an emphasis on the artworks - mostly sculptures – being displayed throughout the buildings and especially scattered around the grounds.
Château d’Angers was quite a drive from Amboise, but worth it to see La tenture de l'Apocalypse (Tapestry of the Apocalyse). The size, the colours and the details are simply breath-taking. https://www.chateau-angers.fr/

Wineries.
I had contacted Tom Munro from The Other Bordeaux to ask if he could make an introduction or two in the area. He came back with a couple of suggestions and we were able to arrange appointments with both.
The first was with Vignoble Brisebarre in Vouvray, just. 20 minute drive for us.
We were hosted by Anne, the charming daughter of the current owner/winemaker. She had excellent English and is the 5th generation Brisebarre on the property. Her father and grandfather greatly expanded the cellars and landholdings in the 1980s. Anne and her brother recently rejoined the business after other careers away.
The key to Vouvray wines is the limestone. In the cellar the vines are 20 m above, with solid limestone between. This explains why there were no vines visible from the valley roads we’d been on. Driving up higher after our visit there were vines everywhere on top of rolling hills. The cellars were originally dug for building stone; then their use changed and they were extended. The cellars contain significant stocks of old and aging wines, at least as far back as 1976 which was apparently a legendary vintage.
The staggering thing about Vouvray is that they only use Chenin Blanc for a vast range of styles. And all the Brisebarre wines had significant personality and class, with minerality often a key feature. It was a delight to meet Anne and have the opportunity to try their wines.
The second introduction was to Château de La Grille, a property of Domaines Baudry & Dutour. It is in Chinon, so about an hour and a half away from Amboise. We arrived in Chinon in time to have our picnic lunch by the river, overlooking the old part of town. It looked to us like a nice place, but then again that seems to be generally the case in this part of the world.
Domitille hosted us. She explained that this is one of the four domains of Baudry & Dutour that are located in different appellations in the Loire Valley. This property was bought about 30 years ago and the château, other buildings and gardens have had serious renovation. The place is now used as a wedding venue.
The tasting room is a new building, with the winery ‘action’ all underground. All very modern.
We were shown a wide range of interesting wines from the different domaines. The Gosset family from Champagne had the property before this group. So the Chinon Rouge from the vineyards around the château continues to be bottled in the unique Gosset Champagne bottles. We had the 2022 wine which was made 50/50 in concrete vats and in barrels. It has fresh fruits and well integrated tannins. We liked it.
So between these two visits we feel as though we saw two ends of a spectrum. Brisebarre is a small, family producer while Baudry & Dutout is a multi-property, much larger concern. And I am keeping my eye out for when the wines as they are getting onto The Other Bordeaux list."

Thank you Will and Susan!

If anyone else in the TOB community would like to submit a similar French travelogue, please send to [email protected] . Everyone would be most grateful for your insights and suggestions.

24/07/2025

🇫🇷✨ Reims: Make memories that sparkle ✨🇫🇷

In the heart of the Champagne region, Reims is more than just a historic city—it’s a celebration of elegance, taste, and heritage. Just 45 minutes by train from Paris, this northern gem invites you to discover the world’s most iconic sparkling wine at its source.

Reims is home to the grandeur of the cathedral of Notre-Dame de Reims, where French kings were once crowned, and beneath its streets lie the chalk caves that have matured Champagne for centuries. For lovers of the finer things, this is sacred ground.

Gastronomy in Reims is compelling. Dine at Racine (2 Michelin stars) for inspired Franco-Japanese fusion [ https://www.racine.re/ ], or enjoy refined seasonal fare at Café du Palais [ https://www.cafedupalais.fr/ ], a local institution adorned with Art Deco charm since 1930. Don’t miss Le Crypto [ https://restaurantlecrypto.eatbu.com/?lang=en ], a modern bistro rooted in tradition and creativity.

Stay in style at Domaine Les Crayères [ https://lescrayeres.com/fr/ ], an opulent château hotel nestled in parkland, or you could opt for a stay at La Caserne Chanzy Hotel & Spa [ https://www.lacasernechanzy.com/en/ ], perfectly located just a short stroll from Reims Cathedral. This elegant boutique hotel blends refined comfort with modern wellness, offering a luxurious alternative to family‑run guesthouses.

When visiting, be sure to taste Champagne from the region’s finest independent producers—Champagne Yves Louvet [ https://champagne-yves-louvet.com/ ], Champagne Testulat [ https://champagne-testulat.com/en/3-our-champagnes ], and Champagne V***e Maître Geoffroy [ https://champagne-maitre-geoffroy.com/en/champagne-veuve-maitre-geoffroy-en/ ] —each proudly imported by The Other Bordeaux. These maisons reflect the artistry and integrity of Champagne’s grower-producer tradition, offering vintages that capture the character of their terroir. Just let me know if you want me to help you set up a tasting appointment.

For a deeper connection to the land, explore the nearby Montagne de Reims by e-bike or follow the Champagne Route through surrounding villages. Visit the morning market at Place du Forum for local cheeses and charcuterie to pair with your next glass.

Reims isn’t just a destination—it’s an invitation to taste the essence of Champagne. 🥂

Champagne Testulat Sparkling Tour en Champagne ABC Champagne Tour La Champagne Champagne Champagne

***eMaitreGeoffroy

21/07/2025

Step inside the storybook charm of Carcassonne, a city where time stands still behind medieval ramparts and gastronomy reigns supreme. Famous for its UNESCO-listed fortified Cité, Carcassonne offers far more than architectural wonder—this is a destination for true epicureans.

Begin your visit with a stroll through the Cité's cobbled lanes, where you’ll uncover the Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus, 52 towers of fairy-tale grandeur, and sweeping views of the Aude Valley. But the real discovery lies in the cuisine. Carcassonne is the spiritual home of cassoulet, the rich, slow-cooked dish of duck confit, pork, and white beans. For the best rendition, book a table at Le Comte Roger, where chef Pierre Mesa redefines this regional classic with finesse.

Stay in refined comfort at Hôtel de la Cité, a five-star sanctuary within the medieval walls, or opt for the tranquil countryside luxury of Domaine d'Auriac, complete with its Michelin-starred restaurant.

Don’t miss the Canal du Midi, just beyond the ramparts. Whether cycling along its leafy banks or taking a leisurely boat cruise, it’s a serene counterpoint to the drama of the Cité. Market lovers will appreciate the vibrant Place Carnot market (on Saturdays), bursting with local produce, truffles, and artisan breads, and the covered markets known locally as the Prosper Montagné Halles (Tuesday to Saturday mornings).

In Carcassonne, history sets the stage—but food and wine steal the show. Let your appetite lead the way.

17/07/2025

🇫🇷 Exploring Chinon: A Loire Valley Treasure 🇫🇷
Planning a trip to the Loire Valley? Don’t miss Chinon — one of our favourite wine villages and a place bursting with charm, history, and flavour.

Here’s what makes Chinon worth a detour:

🍷 Wines of Character – Chinon is Cabernet Franc country. The red wines are fragrant, fresh, and wonderfully food-friendly. Some of our favourite discoveries for The Other Bordeaux have come from the riverbanks just outside this medieval village such as BAUDRY & DUTOUR . Succulent whites from Chenin Blanc and refreshing Cab Franc rosé are also among the world’s best. Chinon AOP

🏰 The Fortress of Chinon – Walk the ramparts of this cliffside château where Joan of Arc met Charles VII. The views over the Vienne River and surrounding vineyards are unforgettable.

🚲 Vineyard Adventures – Whether on foot or by bike, the landscape around Chinon is full of picturesque trails through vineyards, forests, and limestone caves where wines quietly age.

🥖 Market Day – On Thursdays and Sundays, the village comes alive with a bustling market. Local goat’s cheese, crusty bread, ripe fruit and of course a bottle of Chinon rouge… it’s the perfect picnic waiting to happen.

🍽️ Food & Wine Heaven – Try local bistros like L’Ardoise Chinon or Les Années 30 for rustic dishes made with local ingredients, best paired with a glass of what the region does best.

🛏️ Where to Stay – Make a weekend of it:
• Hôtel Diderot – A charming 17th-century townhouse with beautiful breakfast spreads (including house-made jams).
• Château de Marcay – A romantic countryside château just outside Chinon with its own vineyard and fine dining.
• La Maison Rouge – A warm, wine-loving B&B right in the heart of the old town.

🛶 Canoe on the Vienne – For a different view of the vineyards, rent a canoe and glide past fairytale villages and weeping willows along the water.

⸻

Have you been to Chinon? Share your favourite memories below! And if you’re dreaming of Loire Valley reds, we’ve got some beauties arriving soon… 👀🍇

Azay-Chinon Val de Loire Tourisme

09/07/2025

And I should have mentioned in my last post that Caveau du Cairanne also recommends Hôtel Restaurant Les Florets for wonderful accommodation and food above Gigondas/at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail, and Le Tourne au Verre for top notch cuisine in Cairanne itself at a reasonable price.

02/07/2025

Cairanne, its village and vineyards, are at the sweet junction between the ancient floodplains of the Rhône and the wild and rocky high country of Provençe. And if you're looking for a place to go wine tasting then look up my friends at Caveau du Cairanne . It's a mighty big winery that makes some might big wines! Voted Cave Co-operative of the year in 2024. I'm not an expert on restaurant bookings in Cairanne but can recommend a trip over to Gigondas for lunch, perhaps at the wonderful https://www.loustalet-gigondas.fr/ . And for other exceptional wine tasting experiences then look up Domaine Croze-Granier in Roquemaure https://www.domainecrozegranier.fr/ or in Châteauneuf-du-Pape Domaine Juliette Avril or Domaine du Galet des Papes or https://www.domaine-de-pignan.com/index.php?lg=uk . Mention my name and they will look after you! In winter, the truffle market at Richerenches is an unmissable slice of gastronomic southern French life.
Ville de Châteauneuf-du-Pape Châteauneuf-du-Pape Wines Cairanne, Cru des Côtes du Rhône Gigondas wines

18/06/2025

FOUR GREAT RESTAURANTS IN AND AROUND SAINT-ÉMILION. There are just so many restaurants in this gem of a village that you really do need some good advice on where to go so as to avoid the tourist traps. One of the first great local eateries I remember being taken to during a wine-buying expedition in about 2009 is https://www.envers-dudecor.com/en/ and they are still there so must be doing something - or quite a lot of things - right in their pursuit of excellent south-western French country cuisine with just enough high-end flair to make it well worth the money, and it was still cracking on my next visit there 10 years later. 100 metres away but a level below the street in a cosy dining room dug into the limestone bedrock is https://www.lardetbouchon.fr/ where the food and wine are definitely top end, the service superb, and the atmosphere all-enveloping. Venturing a few kms out of town the restaurant at the grandiose https://www.grand-barrail.com/en/ is world class in every dimension and highly recommended, as is the 5* accommodation there. And if you can organise transport, a meal on the outdoor terrace at Caffe Cuisine in summer in the riverside village of Branne is highly recommended (no website of their own but you can find some details here https://fr.gaultmillau.com/en/restaurants/cafe-cuisine and on social media) where you can almost hear the passing Dordogne river (though not actually see it until go out for your post-prandial stroll). Please feel free to mention in the comments any other recommendations you might have.
L'Envers du Décor Lard Et Bouchon Grand Barrail - Château Hôtel Restaurant Spa

05/06/2025

The village of Verdigny in the heart of the Sancerre wine region: 300 residents of which 30 are winemakers! Including Sancerre Roger Neveu whose beautiful wines I am proud to import into Australia. They also have a very well appointed house available to rent in Verdigny and a barrel load of suggestions of things to do in the local area. You’ll find all the details here: https://www.roger-neveu-sancerre.com/our-cottage

Photo courtesy of Sancerre Roger Neveu (that’s the village of Sancerre in the background on the right, a few kms away).

Sancerre AOP Tourisme Grand Sancerrois Sancerre Roger Neveu

25/05/2025

FOUR RESTAURANTS IN CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE as recommended by Coralie Charvin of superb local winery Domaine du Pignan, proudly imported by The Other Bordeaux:

1. La Mère Germaine (Michelin star, luxury hotel and spa, plus entry level eatery Le Comptoir, below) https://www.lameregermaine.com/en/
2. Château Fines Roches (Château-hotel, restaurant , and spa, all laid out in a spectacular estate set among the vineyards of CNDP) https://chateaufinesroches.com/fr/
3. Terrae Truffe et Vin (Restaurant and bar serving CNDP wine-matched food with an accent on local truffles) https://terrae-truffe.fr/
4. Restaurant Le Comptoir de la Mère Germaine. Part of the same luxury hotel and spa set up that also offers the Michelin-starred restaurant at the top of this list, Le Comptoir is the less formal dining option but still extremely high quality. https://www.lameregermaine.com/le-comptoir/

I would also take the liberty of adding to Coralie’s list La Table de Sorgues which is 10 minutes from CNDP and outstandingly good https://latabledesorgues.fr/fr/ . Winemaker Stéphan Brun of Domaine Juliette Avril kindly took me there a few years ago and I can still picture and taste the food!

Photo of central Châteauneuf-du-Pape provided by Domaine du Galet des Papes, also very proudly imported by The Other Bordeaux.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape Wines
Domaine du Galet des Papes
Terrae Truffe & Vin
La Mère Germaine
Hostellerie du Chateau des Fines Roches

16/05/2025

FOUR MARKETS AROUND MARGAUX as recommended by Nicolas Ballande, proprietor of Château Palais Cardinal in Saint-Émilion, whose family also owns Château Prieuré-Lichine in Margaux (as seen in this photograph), both proudly imported by The Other Bordeaux.

1. Petit marché de Margaux - Saturday morning market in Margaux's central square in front of the town council building.
2. Lamarque market (5 minutes from Margaux). Traditional local Wednesday market with a friendly atmosphere.
3. Arsac market (10 minutes from Margaux). Sunday morning market with a focus on local products and specialities served by food trucks for immediate consumption!
4. Pauillac market (20 minutes from Margaux). Big Saturday morning market in the port area with local wine producers, farmers, artisans, local oysters and more, all served up in a buzzing local atmosphere.
Merci Nicolas for these great suggestions!
Château Palais Cardinal

10/05/2025

Habemus papam.

Château Maucoil
Châteauneuf-du-Pape Wines

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My Story

My name’s Tom Munro and after 20 years working for vineyards and wineries in Australia and France, I now import French wine straight to your door: Freight-Free, Australia-wide. Click here if you would like to receive my newsletter and find out about future shipments: http://eepurl.com/dpguK5

But this wine importing business is built on 20+ years of making wine in France and Australia.

And I actually started making wine as an 8-year-old growing up in England, collecting grapes from people who had vines growing in glasshouses although I also had a couple of very hardy vines that I grew myself in a market garden near home in London.

That was back in 1985. Later, I graduated to selling my better wines on the boarding school black market as I progressed through an education dominated by my love of science.