A short drive from the city brings you to Graves and Pessac-Léognan, where Bordeaux first learned the art of making great wine. It’s a place where centuries of history meet daily life, with beautiful vineyards, gravel roads, and families who have been tending vines for generations. In fact, this region takes the crown as Bordeaux’s oldest wine region, tracing its roots back to Roman vintners. It’s actually the birthplace of Bordeaux viticulture.
The word Graves means “gravel,” and that’s the key to its wines. The warm, stony soils in the Grave region reflect sunlight onto the vines and drain perfectly, helping Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot ripen evenly. The result is a balance of structure, freshness, and that signature Bordeaux elegance that wine lovers remember.
Pessac-Léognan, at the northern end of Graves, is home to some of Bordeaux’s most historic estates, including Château Haut-Brion, Thomas Jefferson’s favorite winery, and the only estate outside the Médoc to earn First Growth status in the 1855 Classification. Château Pape Clément is also here, where vines have grown since the 13th century.
What makes these regions truly special is their versatility. They are among the few places in Bordeaux that produce both exceptional reds and refined dry whites. The reds show depth and strength without heaviness, while the whites are crisp, aromatic, and full of life, pairing beautifully with fresh seafood or creamy cheeses.
If you enjoy wines that combine history with authenticity, or simply like tasting both red and white in a single day, Graves and Pessac-Léognan are a perfect match. They capture the heart of Bordeaux: real, welcoming, and full of stories in every glass.
A day here often begins just south of the city, where the first Bordeaux vines were planted centuries ago. You might start at an estate like Château Pape Clément, one of Bordeaux’s oldest properties, where you can see the secret bottle rooms and learn about the previous owner, none other than Pope Clement V!
From there, head deeper into Pessac-Léognan for a private visit to one of our favorites, Château Smith Haut Lafitte. Known for its stunning architecture, art-filled cellars, and commitment to organic farming, it’s the perfect example of how tradition and innovation thrive side by side in this region.
Lunch has to be at one of the excellent fine-dining restaurants surrounded by vines, where every dish is paired with wines from nearby estates. The afternoon continues at a Grand Cru Classé château, where you’ll taste both reds and whites that showcase why this area is so unique.
Between the stories, the soil, and the wines themselves, Graves and Pessac-Léognan offer a taste of Bordeaux that’s as genuine as it is unforgettable.
Bordeaux Wine Vacations
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