Pauillac

Pauillac is a town in the Médoc area of Gironde, set on the banks of the Gironde estuary around 50 kilometres north of Bordeaux. It is internationally renowned for its vineyards, home to three of the most prestigious estates classified as first growths in 1855: Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Latour and Château Mouton Rothschild. The Pauillac appellation produces highly regarded red wines, made predominantly from cabernet sauvignon grapes. The marina and commercial harbour bring life to the waterfront, offering open views across the wide estuary and the surrounding vine-covered landscape. The town is also known for Pauillac lamb, a locally protected speciality. The surrounding countryside is well suited to walks through the vineyards and visits to the various châteaux, several of which offer cellar tours and tastings. The town centre retains the feel of a small wine-trade port, with shops and restaurants geared towards wine tourism. Pauillac makes a convenient base for exploring the Médoc wine route and for day trips to Bordeaux or the Atlantic coast resorts, roughly an hour's drive away.