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OMGD Israel Visit

Bailliage of Israel
Bordeaux, November 2-9, 2022

The beauty of Bordeaux
" each morning we had a different adventure "

Fine dining restaurants, Grand Cru Classé wineries, beautiful vineyards as far as the eye can see, and impressive Châteaux home to some of the best wineries in the world. At the beginning of November, a group of us set off to discover the beauty of Bordeaux.

The trip was planned and led by our member and Échanson, Guy Haran, CEO of Vinspiration a tour company specializing in wine and culinary trips worldwide.

Based in the beautiful city of Bordeaux, each morning we had a different adventure, learning about the culture, history and specifically focusing on both wine and culinary aspects in this abundant region.

From Grand Cru Classé “A” wineries such as Château Pavie, through top-of-the-line modernized wineries like Château Lynch-Bages to learning about biodynamic agriculture. How the lunar calendar dictates ways of treating the vineyards at Château Pontet-Canet. We acquired a wide understanding of the great diversity and methods. Perhaps also how much more there is to learn.

Amazed by the balance and elegance of the sweet wines of Sauternes, at Château d'Yquem we learnt about the noble rot. An idea of just how meticulous the process of making sweet wines can be.

From one winery to another, we dined in warm family-owned bistros, local restaurants serving the best seasonal cuisine, as well as exquisite restaurants in Bordeaux and its surrounding region.

Of many highlights to remember, one certainly would be our experience at La Table de Pavie, a Michelin 2-star restaurant helmed by Chef Yannick Alléno, located in the centre of the beautiful town of Saint-Émilion.

Other activities included learning the secrets of the local pastries and sweets. We took a tour of the city with a local, well informed, and knowledgeable guide. Our guide led us through streets and alleys of Bordeaux, whilst giving us interesting details and information about art and history too.

In six full days (November 3-8), the number of things we did and places we saw was incredible. Perhaps a first trip with Guy and Vinspiration for us. Surely not the last, as we are already planning our next trip to Piedmont. I promise to keep you posted!

Lastly, to sum up and celebrate this great experience, we were invited for a final farewell by two of our members on the trip, Chef Adham and Marua Shafik. We went to Dalyat El Carmel, a Druze village on Israel’s Mount Carmel, for a local tour and dinner with an all local Druze delicatessen followed by a Kunafe preparation workshop.

A great ending.

Talya Kessler
Vinspiration

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