European Waterways has announced a new Wine Appreciation theme charter cruise aboard the eight-passenger hotel barge Rosa, which cruises the Canal de Garonne through Bordeaux in France. The cruise will include private tours and tastings at some long-established wineries producing grand cru and premier cru wines, such as Château Beau-Sejour-Becot near the famous town of Saint-Emilion, itself a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Other cruise highlights include a visit to Château de Malle, a winery set in Italian-style gardens with vineyards situated in some of the most sought after wine-growing land in the region. Owned by the same family since the 17th century, it produces a renowned sweet wine, Sauternes “Grand Cru Classe”, a recognition awarded back in 1855.
Wine Cruise guests will also tour a traditional cooperage to see how the barrels are made that enhance the wines of Bordeaux, and visit the “Maison des Vins”. This unique venue has exhibitions that recount the wine-making traditions of the area dating back to the 12th century. There is also a stop at the Lapeyrade Estate for a cellar tasting of Armagnac, the oldest alcohol in France.
The Wine Appreciation charter cruises aboard Rosa start from $36,800, based on whole boat charters. Prices include all tours and admission fees, the services of an expert wine guide, all meals, upgraded wines, an open bar and local transfers.
Visit www.gobarging.com