As many French businesses, some Bordeaux wineries are closed in August. At the same time, many of the Bordeaux chateaux remain open for visits and tastings.
In my opinion, August is a good month to visit Bordeaux wineries. You will get to see ripening grapes and experience harvest activities if you visit closer to the end of the month. Plus, as Bordeaux city dwellers flock to the sea, there is much less people in Bordeaux making your stay more relaxing – plenty of parking and no crowds.
It is definitely possible to join a small-group Bordeaux wine tour or a private Bordeaux tour in August and enjoy winery visits and tastings.
Which Bordeaux Wineries are Closed in August?
The first growth wineries usually close down in August.
For example, Château Margaux, Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Mouton Rothschild are closed, so is Château Pontet-Canet.
Which Bordeaux Châteaux are Open in August?
Most wineries with wine tourism operations will remain open during the month of August, while some may choose to close for a couple of weeks to give staff an opportunity to take vacations with their families as August as it is the main period for French employees to take time off.
In my experience, this is mostly the case with smaller family-owned companies.
August shut downs depend on the staffing and may change year to year. It is best to contact the wineries to confirm their availability and hours or ask your wine tour guide to do the work for you. I organize Bordeaux wine trips and will be happy to help you with planning your visits,
What I can tell with confidence is that many prestigious 1855 Grand Cru Classé chateaux will remain open as well as some Premier Grand Cru Classé of Saint-Émilion.
Examples of the Bordeaux wineries open in August:
Château Haut-Breton Lariguadière
For the list of Bordeaux wineries, please see here.
