Château Pontac-Lynch
28 Route du Port D, Margaux-Cantenac, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, 33460
This family-owned vineyard in the heart of Bordeaux wine country has produced high-quality cru bourgeois wines since 1932. Boasting the same gravel-and-limestone clay soils as big-name neighbors Château Margaux and Château Rauzan-Ségla, the estate is known for blended red wines using cabernet, merlot, and petit verdot grapes.
The basics
Château Pontac-Lynch welcomes visitors for tours of the vineyards and cellars. The experience provides a low-key and affordable alternative—or addition—to visiting nearby vineyards whose wines are among the world’s most expensive. Following the guided tour, visitors have the option to add tastings of the estate’s three red wines, plus light snacks such as cheese and cured meats. Children accompanied by an adult can visit for free.
Things to know before you go
Reservations are necessary for vineyard tours.
The location is great for visitors who hope to tour more than one vineyard, as a long list of wineries are located within easy driving distance.
Know your labels: Château Pontac-Lynch sells red wines distinguished by the appellations AOC Margaux and AOC Haut-Médoc.
How to get there
Château Pontac-Lynch is located in the commune of Margaux-Cantenac, within the Gironde department of southwestern France. It’s 19 miles (31 kilometers) from the city of Bordeaux, and is an included stop of some tours of the Margaux winemaking area. Tours are an excellent way to visit Bordeaux wine country, as traveling with a dedicated driver means you won’t have to forgo tastings. Public transit is another option, via a 43-minute ride from Bordeaux to Margaux Train Station (Gare de Margaux).
When to get there
The Château Pontac-Lynch is open to visitors from May through August, a season featuring regular tour departures several days a week. The winery is closed on public holidays, and weekend tours are available by appointment only. While the grape harvest in Bordeaux doesn’t pick up speed until September and October, visiting in August offers the chance to see the vines heavy with ripening fruit.
How to taste wine in Bordeaux
Tasting Bordeaux wines is a highlight of visiting southwestern France, and tours of Bordeaux wineries range from private day trips to small-group, overnight adventures. As many vineyards have uneven ground, comfortable shoes are a must—some tours feature lots of walking. While some guides at top-end wineries dress up, visitor clothing is generally casual. Not every winery sells on-site: If you’re hoping to bring wine home, guides can help you figure out the process.
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