In the Médoc region, Crus Bourgeois tastings take place in the handsomest properties

Château Lestage: a Napoleon III setting

This flamboyant 19th century château is nestled at the heart of the vineyard, whose gentle slope is the culminating point of the Médoc. In the hands of the Chanfreau family since 1963, the wines produced on the estate, white and red, are known for their refinement, with a wide aromatic palette that allows a long ageing period in cellars. ww.vignobles-chanfreau.com

This lived-in château with a neo-classic facade opens its doors by appointment only. © DR

It is in this room that tastings take place, before the final bottling process of new vintages. © DR

Château le Boscq: conquering the Medoc vinyards 

Built in 1891, this majestic estate in the village of Saint-Estèphe offers a view on the Gironde estuary, and displays on its bottle tags a gabarre boat as symbol of the property. Well referenced in guides, its wines have the Cru Classé appellation, and the estate is an ideal departure base to visit the area. saint-estephe.fr/nos-chateaux/le-boscq/

Perfectly symmetric, the château is a good example of neo-classic architecture in the Bordelais region. © DR

Once in the vines, take a basket, and pick a few refreshing grapes. © DR

Château Larose-Trintaudon: a beacon on an ocean of vines

It's in 1870 that Comte Ernest de Lahens had this odd-looking château built, surmounted by a tower with the allures of a beacon in the middle of an ocean of perfectly upkept vines. This accessible excellent wine delights connoissers who collect its fruity vintages paying homage to the very best grapes. www.chateau-larose-trintaudon.fr

An architectural curiosity, this château is so appealing it could very well become your summer residence. © DR

All visits go through the cellars where the oak caskets preserve the house nectars, from the vineyard to the table. © DR

Château Paveil de Luze: a family property since 1862

Amongst the oldest properties in the Médoc region, this two-tower building is one of the strong points of the Grands Crus Road, at Margaux. Spanning 32 hectares, its vineyard, composed of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot vintages, cultivates a French style garden, with as byword strong sensitivy for the environment and a passion for its land. www.chateaupaveildeluze.com

Superbly renovated, the château and its outbuildings are reflected in the water. © DR

Other assets of the domain, its reception rooms and bedrooms can welcome guests attracted by wine tourism. © DR