We did not do a tasting. Such large scale operations are usually quite expensive and give you little context to appreciate the wines. However, the wine shop "La cave d'Ulysse" in Margaux, offers some tastings as well as a good selection of wines. Note: do not request a tasting in the shop if you have no intentions of buying. Contrary to current American thinking, the french do not think "wine tasting" is an activity. Rather, it is an essential element of "wine buying." As far as an actual winery visit. Many small wineries will be glad to show you around and offer a taste. Best to call in advance though. And again, as above, don't taste unless you are ready to buy if you taste something you like.

There is a bus stop in Margaux from Bordeaux. I will try to look for it in my phone and post it. The chateau Margaux is probably a 15-20 minute leisurely walk from this bus stop. Through some chateaus and vineyards. There is a quaint Roman Catholic chapel right next door to the Chateau Margaux but is visited by a priest once or twice a month only for mass service. The distance from the train station to Chateau Margaux is probably a 30 minute walk. My friend and I tried to locate the train station. We knew we were near it but we couldn't find the direction. But a local told us that it was not too far. Margaux is a small town. So long as the weather is not hot and not cold then a visit to the grounds of Chateau Margaux is doable. Beautiful sprawling architecture, I must add. I think I posted some photos of this grand place. There was no one in the office when we walked over one afternoon. We saw a sign that says one has to call days in advance to make an appointment. Dora - Since you're from Manhattan Beach, you may be used to a lot of leisurely walking.

You could contact the Chateau directly using their contact page or you could get a wine tour to get you an visit. Slots are of a premium and at a shortage so book early