Hello! My husband and I will be in St. Emilion, just outside of Bordeaux, in July and would like to visit some wineries in the area. From the research I have done so far, it sounds like you need a reservation at most of the wineries. I am having a hard time figuring out how to make a reservation without booking a wine tour. We will have a car and possibly bikes. Any suggestions or recommendations would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!
Don't shy away from taking a tour. They can be both fun and informative. I would think you could sign on to a small group (6 to 8 people) for about 100 euro pp for a full day. The driver/guide will have "ins" with the wineries. And the best part is, you don't need to spit out the wine at the tastings because you have a driver.
We tasted and bought several bottles of fabulous, well-priced wine directly from the vintners who have shops in St. Emilion. No reservation or tasting fee. The vintners were happy to pour tastes of their wine and talk to us about their vineyards. One of the vintners autographed and gave us a postcard size picture of his beautiful wine label that was designed by his wife. We intend to frame it.