Region-Specific Advice

Bordeaux

Left Bank Strategy - Book classified growths early - Many require trade connections - Consider second wines - Médoc marathon possible - Stay in Pauillac/Margaux

Right Bank Approach - Smaller properties - More intimate visits - Saint-Émilion base - Walk between some - Pomerol challenging

Hidden Gems: - Fronsac properties - Côtes de Bourg - Entre-Deux-Mers whites - Graves discoveries

Burgundy

Appointment Musts - Small production = advance booking - Harvest impossible - French helps enormously - Négociants more accessible - One village per day

Village Hopping: - Park and walk - Caveau (tasting rooms) - Saturday markets - Local restaurants - Domaine direct

Special Experiences: - Hospices de Beaune auction (November) - Clos de Vougeot tours - La Paulée celebrations - Truffle hunting

Champagne

Grande Marque Visits - Tourist-friendly - Multiple languages - Advance booking - Tour options vary - Gift shops

Grower Champagne - More intimate - Appointment essential - French helpful - Passionate hosts - Better values

Unique Options: - Riddling demonstrations - Sabrage lessons - Harvest participation - Underground chalk tours

Rhône Valley

Northern Challenges - Steep slopes - Small producers - Limited facilities - Appointments crucial - Tain l'Hermitage base

Southern Ease - Larger wineries - Tourist infrastructure - Village exploration - Avignon base - Festival seasons

Loire Valley

Four Regions Approach - Don't attempt all - 2-3 days per section - River route logical - Château combinations - Local wine bars

Special Considerations: - Vouvray cellars - Sancerre hilltop - Muscadet with oysters - Anjou sweet wines

Alsace

Route des Vins - Well-marked trail - Village hopping easy - Christmas markets magical - German spoken - Riquewihr touristy

Eating Essential: - Winstubs tradition - Flammekueche lunch - Munster pairing - Bakery stops

Languedoc-Roussillon

Vast Territory: - Choose sub-regions - Pic Saint-Loup accessible - Collioure stunning - Natural wine focus - Beach combinations

Provence

Rosé Route: - Book ahead summer - Coastal beauty - Celebrity estates - Market visits - Lavender season