The smallest appellation in the greater Bordeaux wine-making region, little Pomerol nevertheless has an outsize reputation. Its viticultural history dates back to Roman times, and it was once known for its white wines. Today, however, the region is celebrated for its world-class, Merlot-based wines, which are sometimes blended with Cabernet Franc, Malbec, or Cabernet Sauvignon.
Day trips from Bordeaux offer an indulgent way to explore Pomerol’s many wineries and enjoy tasting sessions. Many itineraries also pair Pomerol trips with visits to Saint-Émilion, so you can make the most of your Right Bank excursions.
Pomerol is located just a 10-minute drive from both Saint-Émilion and Libourne. If traveling from Bordeaux, it’s less than an hour’s drive via the N89. Alternatively, guided tours offer a seamless way to explore the appellation.
Harvest season, which typically occurs in September, is the busiest time of year, and offers the chance to see the vineyards in action. If planning to visit individual châteaus, be sure to research their hours in advance: they may vary greatly, and many don’t offer public tasting facilities.
Though it spans just 1,830 acres (740 hectares), Pomerol features a variety of soil types, and the best vineyards sit atop its blue clay. The area produces wines of real complexity and character that are considered a halfway point between the lush, fruit-led styles of Saint-Émilion and the more austere wines of the Médoc, on Bordeaux’s Left Bank.