Drink Up, Chow Down

Château Suduiraut After an unforgettable morning at d’Yquem and a fantastic (rich!) lunch in Sauternes, the magnificent Château Suduiraut was next on my list. Other than the great wine, seeing the château itself was my favorite part of the visit. Completely modernized by AXA since their acquisition of the property in 1992, it is a popular conference spot nowadays with its own stellar restaurant onsite. In fact, much of what is served is grown right there in their gardens. Château Suduiraut And what gardens they are! I could happily get lost with a blanket and a book (and, naturally, some Château Suduiraut and local cheese) for hours. While the late spring morning in Sauternes had been fresh and misty, by the afternoon it was hot and still — this microclimate makes the area unique, and is what ultimately brings on the glorious botrytis that makes the area so famous. They generously opened three wines for me: Castelnau de Suduiraut 2006, Sudu

The illustrious history, the famous fans, the personal invitation! A highlight of my recent trip to Bordeaux was a visit to Château d'Yquem , recognized as one of the most superior fine wines in the world. They graciously opened their cellar doors (and bottles) for me, and it took days for me to stop smiling. The grounds are as spectacular as you’d expect – with its fairytale castle, parts of which date back over 500 years, its lush gardens, and its impeccably cared for vineyards. And its story is equally spectacular. During the Middle Ages, Château d'Yquem was owned by the King of England before passing into French hands, and finally, luxury goods conglomerate LVMH. Château d'Yquem's unique microclimate (its vineyards are at the highest point in Sauternes), famed terroir (clay and gravel over deep limestone), exceptionally low yields (all hand-picked), delicate botrytis (that magical noble rot) and meticulous winemaking ensure a qual

Château Pichon Baron Bordeaux's  Château Pichon Baron is magnificent. Drive past its famous château (no longer a private residence) and you’ll see many a wine tourist taking photos of it from the road. Originally classified as one of the 15 prestigious second growths in the Bordeaux Classification of 1855, the estate is now owned by French insurance company AXA, which has invested significantly in modernizing its facilities. Château Pichon Baron Château Pichon Baron Although I did join the tourists taking selfies from the road, I was also offered a private tour of the spectacular property. It’s a beautifully-designed estate, with a definite eye to the future. Much of the winemaking actually takes place underneath the famous pond and lawn in front of the château. (And yes, there are portholes!) The library at Château Pichon Baron Their library collection is astounding, with bottles dating back to the late-1800s. Oh, to be that time trave