Why now? It's harvest time. See this year's Chateau Margaux snipped from the vine; try the first sips of sauternes-bound semillon, and study the fermentation process at tiny estates.

Getting there Eurostar to Lille then TGV takes 8-10 hours (raileeurope.co.uk). EasyJet flies from Luton and Bristol; Bmibaby from Birmingham and Manchester.

Where to stay Ecolodge des Chartrons (0033 5 56 81 49 13, ecolodgedeschartrons.com, from €98 per night) has three rooms near the quay.

Where to eat Le Grill du Bouchon (12 rue des Pilliers du Tutelle, +5 56 81 00 64).

Where to drink The Ecole Du Vin (ecole.vins-bordeaux.fr) runs wine courses, or hire a car/taxi for a tour of the vineyards.