Arrival in Bordeaux

There was a time when I once said something along the lines of, "I don't like French wine." I believe that I said it was too earthy for me, too dusty. I even remember saying that I don't like Bordeaux.

Now, hold onto your hats, because I'm about to say something I don't often say: I WAS WRONG! Clearly, I formed this opinion when I was underage and accustomed to drinking Boon's Farm or Natural Light. :) Bordeaux - the city, the food, and of course, the wine - are fabulous!

On our first day and night in town, we did a little wandering. We enjoyed a Lonely Planet recommendation for a light lunch. And since we were in Bordeaux, we killed a bottle of delicious, inexpensive, Vins de Pays. That's the table wine, more or less. But it would cost a lot in the USA. After lunch, it was time to park ourselves in front of a television to watch Shleck and Contador duke it out on Le Col du Tourmalet. Happy that Andy won the stage, but sad that Contador remained in the yellow jersey, we decided to drown our sorrows in a walk around town and more French food.

In the center of town, most of Bordeaux's streets are pedestrian only. It was fun to people watch, window shop, and in the end, settle down for dinner at a wine bar off the beaten path. I'm not sure how Jeremy found this place, but it was amazing! I had a Croque Monseur that will go down in history as one of the best sandwiches I have ever eaten. Jeremy had a vegetable cassolet that was delicious. We shared a bottle of white wine from Bordeaux, that had a sweet but tart but grassy taste unlike anything else we've ever drunk.

We are geared up for another delightful day in Bordeaux tomorrow.  A santé!