As global travels remains on pause, now is the time to create a travel wish list. And when you’re again ready to board a plane in celebration of the world’s grand reopening, you’ll be ready to hit the ground – or air – running. For your consideration? France’s Bordeaux region, and in particular, the fabulous Château Phélan Ségur.
Oenophiles especially will appreciate a pilgrimage to the motherland of winemaking. But wine lover or not, a visit to Bordeaux will surely stir the soul. The city in recent years has witnessed a monumental rejuvenation, and several stately and gorgeous Bordeaux Chateaux are opening their doors to vinous aficionados and luxury seekers who crave the chance to enjoy ‘la vie de chateau’ for a day or two.
In the heart of the commune of Saint-Estèphe, the Northern most appellations of the Médoc, Château Phélan Ségur majestically stands over the Gironde estuary from the summit of its clay-gravel hilltop. The estate’s park, with its centuries-old trees, runs down to the small port of St Estèphe. From a tour of the vineyard and cellars, to cooking class or a lavish meal within the 18th century Château, the Château Phélan Ségur team is pleased to share this stately manse, as well as its secrets to its award-winning wines. When the time is right, choose from any one of the following programs. Select one, or combine several for an extraordinary experience:
In the Vineyard Manager’s Boots: This interactive tour in the heart of the property’s 70 hectares of vineyards allows guests to discover the world of Château Phélan Ségur’s vineyard manager. With his natural passion, he will share the many sides of the winegrower’s craft.
In the Heart of the Barrel: After a tour of the cellar, the most interested can deepen their knowledge during an expert pre-blending tasting from barrels made varying coopers. This rare and unique experience, in the company of the cellar master, can include a tasting of a mystery vintage.
Discovering Grands Crus: Discover different chocolate terroirs and origins, then taste pairings devised with several vintages of Phélan Ségur.
The Chef Goes to Market: Follow Chef Killian Martin as he sets off to meet local producers. Learn how to select ingredients and work together to create a lunch menu.
Harvest Table at Château Phélan Ségur: Watch the grapes arrive, taste the first juices, and discover fermentation’s aromas. Then share a tasty and generous country lunch in the park or in the elegant Cour des Arcades: oysters from the Bassin, grilled meats, poultry on the skewer, farmhouse cheeses, an assortment of desserts and other dishes prepared according to market availability.
My First Steps at the Château: For children aged six to eight, this program introduces discoveries in the vineyard and cellars, followed by a ‘little gourmet’ meal.
The Secrets of the Château Kitchens: Put your cooking skills to the test! As a couple or among friends, novices or experts, spend an unforgettable moment behind the stove, guided by Château Phélan Ségur’s chef who will reveal some of his secrets. At lunchtime, treat yourselves to the dishes you have prepared.
Grand Dinner at the Château: In the intimacy of the Château, take a journey that combines culinary creations with the Château’s greatest vintages.
Little Chefs: Children can enjoy a special moment with Chef and develop simple recipes to eat on the spot or take away.
Le Millésime Gourmand: Enjoy lunch in the Château dining room, or on sunny days, in the park.
Estate Tour and Vertical Tasting: From the early 19th century cellars, discover how the fine wines of Château Phélan Ségur are made via a vertical tasting of three vintages.
Luncheon on the Grass: Recreate Manet’s famous painting with this elegant Chef-prepared picnic. Lunch is preceded by a tour of the property with tasting.
A Stroll Though the Vineyard: Stroll the vineyards, as you pass through the orchard and to admire the panorama over the Gironde.
Teatime in the Medoc: Chef, passionate about making pastries, reveals the tricks of his trade: macarons, chocolate truffles, canelés will no longer hold any secrets! Enjoy your sweet creations with original and surprising pairings of Phélan Ségur wines.
Croquet Party: Play a game of croquet in the Château Phélan Ségur park, followed by a tour of the wine cellars, and a country lunch, enjoyed in the shade of the park’s centuries-old trees.
Play Truant: After a half-day seminar and a friendly lunch prepared by Chef, energize and reinforce your group’s team spirit with mountain biking, a treasure hunt, and more.
La Table du Marathon du Médoc: The Marathon du Médoc is a French marathon race, created in 1985, held every year in September through the vineyards of the Médoc in the Gironde. Château Phélan Ségur offers a tasty and generous ‘recovery’ lunch in an elegant gourmet setting.
Photos courtesy of @deepixstudio
