Wines and spirits Côte Aquitaine

The Pub de la Brasserie Mira is one of those must-visit addresses for fun evenings on the Bassin. Mira, we already knew the name and even the beer of the brewery created by Jacques and Aurélien, two local children with a passion for hops. They conceived and created a first range of original beers, brewed with spring water from the Bassin and identified on the bottles by a chimera. Mira beers have never ceased to seduce connoisseurs, so it was only logical that the brewer-malters should follow through on their ambition by opening this pub.

In the heart of the Bas-Armagnac region, this earth-floored winery has been the Domaine's cellar since its origins in the ^19th century. During your visit, you'll learn all about the vineyard and the distillation process. The large room housing the various bottles of armagnac and armagnac-based aperitifs adjoins the cellar, where barrels containing old vintages are stored. Domaine de Lassaubatju Bas-Armagnac is both powerful and light, fragrant and fruity. To be enjoyed in moderation, of course. Three guest rooms are available.

Ma Part des Anges was created by Emmanuel Vaysse, a starred head sommelier, and Maxime Hélimi, a restaurateur for many years. These wine enthusiasts decided to open a place that is both a natural and organic wine cellar and bar and a delicatessen. Tastings, advice, sharing, tastes and flavours are the key words of the house. Great wines from Bordeaux but also from Alsace, Burgundy, Corsica, Jura, Languedoc, Loire and Champagne, here are the beautiful discoveries of Ma Part des Anges. A few tables allow you to settle down and organize an evening aperitif-tasting with friends around often original wines and a plate of good charcuterie.

Dating back to 1747, this 10 ha property has belonged to the same family since 1936. The red and rosé wines of Château Barrabaque are among the most famous of the Fronsac and Canon-Fronsac appellations. Concerned about the respect of the environment, Caroline Noël-Barraux, the owner since 2004, practices a reasoned culture of the vine. The methods of cultivation and vinification combine both tradition and modern techniques. The vines are worked according to the terroir. It is a beautiful address on the wine road.

This address isn't exactly sober, given the number of beautiful bottles on the shelves. A humorous wink from the people in charge of this cellar, bar and even restaurant. The selections are small nuggets unearthed in France or in vineyards further afield, and are always genuine discoveries. The cellar, which boasts over 500 references, organizes tastings of wines, world whiskies, cognacs and beers, as well as one-off events; it also invites winemakers to present their treasures.

Sébastien Juanicotena combines competence, expertise and enthusiasm. This lover of the "Halles" district has a temperament and an engaging personality, and will advise you on the selection of your wine, champagne or spirits. Over 500 references, including 300 from Spanish vineyards and top French names, some of them organically and biodynamically grown. Weekend tastings too. A fine establishment that's become a must.

Did you know? Fronsac also brews beer! It's all happening at the 3 Tertres artisanal and organic brewery. This brewery was founded in 2017 by Alain, a native of Ch'ti! In the old Belgian tradition, he brews 3 varieties of beer, but that's without taking into account seasonal ephemera (Christmas, etc.). We're there to buy a few bottles of this malted vintage (of course!), a visit or a tavern-style aperitif on Friday evenings from 5pm to 10pm.

Clos des Menuts, AOC Saint-Emilion Grand Cru, is a must-see wine estate with superb monolithic medieval cellars dotted with ancient grain silos. An underground cellar in its own right, with dusty bottles, nooks and carved stone walls... On your way back up to the boutique, you'll enjoy a tasting session and no doubt leave with a few bottles, boxes or accessories. Special offers and other good deals offering excellent value for money are a great opportunity to seize.

Situated on one of Fronsac's highest points, the Château enjoys one of the best exposures in the appellation and a breathtaking view of the Dordogne. The Cru (La Truffière) owes its name to the presence of truffle oaks. This wine is a subtle blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Zita and Jean-Jacques Dubois provide a warm welcome to develop their wine tourism offer (tours, tasting initiation, blending workshop...).