This is going To Be amazing , I think
as our coach ferries us up vineyard-
laden hills. My camera never stops
snapping during the scenic journey
from Pauillac to Château Kirwan in
the Médoc region.
In 1855, Emperor Napoleon III
established a system to help identify
the area’s wines. We learn that
Médoc’s distinctive terroir produces
some of the world’s top-rated and
most expensive vintages: Château
Lafite-Rothschild and Château
Mouton Rothschild.
Everywhere we go we hear about
terroir—the combination of soil,
geography and climate that makes
each wine unique. I’ve visited other
wine regions in the world and
participated in a few tastings, but I
clearly still have a lot to learn!
We arrive at Château Kirwan in
Margaux for a special dinner and
wine tasting prepared by our ship’s
kitchen crew. With its perfectly
manicured grounds and majestic
Cruising the Garonne River
44
Spring 2018
CAA MAniTOBA
courtyard, the 18th-century manor
is an indelible reminder of France’s
grand history. Inside, a fire roars
in the stone hearth and tables are
topped with white linens. Course
after course arrives, each paired with
a different Château Kirwan wine. The
landowner briefs us on the tasting
notes of every vintage.
As I chat with tablemates, I
discover that river cruising appeals
to culture lovers, history buffs
and amateur photographers—
people looking for full immersion
in centuries-old cities. While this
particular itinerary is decidedly
upmarket, there are special-interest
cruises all over the world—from
bicycle cruises to classical music
tours—to suit any traveller’s budget.
Many on this trip, myself included,
have been on ocean cruises. We
all agree the experience is entirely
different. The sheer breadth of
amenities and entertainment on an
ocean liner is often the main attrac-
tion. On a river cruise, the experience
is more intimate—smaller ships with
fewer guests, and itineraries that let
you delve deeper into new cultures.
pAge,
Saint-Émilion’s vines and steeples