40 years ago, Tony Laithwaite bought Château La Clarière, the spiritual home of his Vineyard Partners – his Confrères – and set about to show the world that wines from forgotten Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux could rival those of next-door Saint-Émilion's Grands Crus Classés. Join the head winemaker, Jean-Marc Sauboua, for a wine-packed few days on Bordeaux's beautiful Right Bank region and discover the magic there for yourself.

We have planned an exciting schedule of tastings, lunches and dinners where, in the company of fellow Vineyard Partners, you will enjoy a wide range of wines from the Laithwaites stable and, of course, Château La Clarière itself.

You will be staying at the 5-Star Grand Hotel Barrail, a converted 19th-century château. It lies just outside medieval Saint-Émilion, one of the most picturesque wine towns in the world, so we will make sure that you have time to explore it.

We visit two other estates in our family of winemakers, with a chance to savour the wines, the ambience and often a delicious meal.

The main event is reserved, of course, for Château la Clarière, which opens its cellar doors to Vineyard Partners for a tour and a tasting hosted by head winemaker Jean-Marc, followed by a relaxed lunch in the Grand Hall at the estate.

The UNESCO World Heritage city of Bordeaux has undergone a renaissance in the last 20 years and is a great city to explore for a couple of hours, before the group heads for Bordeaux Airport.

Just 35 Vineyard Partners can join this exciting tour, so do get in touch with our trip organiser, Cindy-Marie Harvey, very soon for a full day-by-day itinerary and to confirm your place!