Musée du Vin et du Négoce, Bordeaux

Museum in Bordeaux

Bordeaux Musée Du Vin Et Du Négoce
CC BY-SA 40 / Tylwyth Eldar

Tucked away in the historic Chartrons district, the Musée du Vin et du Négoce is one of the top attractions in Bordeaux for anyone curious about wine culture. Set inside the vaulted stone cellars of an 18th-century merchant's house, this museum charts three centuries of winemaking, barrel-crafting, and trade traditions that helped turn Bordeaux into a global wine powerhouse. Its exhibits bring the city's commercial past to life, offering a genuine sense of what wine storage, ageing, and export once looked like.

This intimate and atmospheric museum is a highlight of any tour of Bordeaux, especially for visitors who enjoy a mix of history and hands-on exploration. Rare documents, antique bottles, cooperage tools, and film displays guide you through the story of the region's wines, while tastings at the end provide a delicious introduction to Bordeaux's celebrated terroirs.

History and Significance of Musée du Vin et du Négoce

Founded to preserve and share the legacy of Chartrons wine merchants, the museum occupies a building constructed in 1720 for Louis XV’s royal broker. This district was once the beating heart of the international wine trade, with merchants from England, Ireland, Scandinavia, and beyond establishing warehouses along the quays.

The museum highlights not only how wine was made but also how it was bought, sold, and shipped around the world. Bordeaux's rise to global fame stemmed largely from the négociant system, and the museum explains their essential role—from selecting and ageing wine to branding and exporting it. The result is a deeper understanding of why Bordeaux became synonymous with quality in the international wine market.

Things to See and Do in Musée du Vin et du Négoce

Visitors begin their journey in the semi-subterranean cellars, where thick stone walls once kept barrels cool during ageing. Exhibits showcase traditional winemaking tools, coopers’ equipment, and vintage labels that chart the development of Bordeaux’s great châteaux.

You'll also find rare merchant ledgers, bottles dating back centuries, and audio-visual presentations that bring shipping routes and trade networks to life. The museum's wine tasting, included with entry, allows you to sample Bordeaux wines while guides explain the influence of grape varieties, terroir, and ageing on flavour.

Workshops and themed events are held throughout the year, offering deeper insights into wine appreciation and Bordeaux’s role in the global trade.

How to Get There

The museum is located in the Chartrons district, north of Bordeaux’s historic centre. It is easily reached on foot or by tram, with Chartrons tram stop just a short walk away. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place. If travelling by car, limited street parking is available nearby. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting Musée du Vin et du Négoce

  • Best time to visit Musée du Vin et du Négoce: Late morning or mid-afternoon for quieter cellars.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Around €10–€15 including wine tasting.
  • Opening hours: Typically 10 a.m.–6 p.m., daily except major holidays.
  • Official website: Check for updated opening times and workshop schedules.
  • How long to spend: 1–1.5 hours.
  • Accessibility: Some cellar areas involve steps and uneven flooring.
  • Facilities: Gift shop, tasting area, restrooms.
  • Photography tip: Low light in the cellars makes early daylight hours ideal for shooting.
  • Guided-tours: Offered in multiple languages; recommended for wine beginners.
  • Nearby food options: Plenty of bistros and wine bars in the Chartrons quarter.

Where to Stay close to Musée du Vin et du Négoce

Stay nearby at Hotel Vatel Bordeaux for modern comfort in the Chartrons district. Another appealing option is Mercure Bordeaux Château Chartrons, set in a peaceful corner near the river. For boutique charm, consider Hotel des Quinconces close to major landmarks.

Is Musée du Vin et du Négoce Worth Visiting?

Yes—especially for wine lovers. This spot is one of the best places to see in Bordeaux if you want to understand how the city's wine became world-famous. Its cellars, artefacts, and tastings offer an experience that feels both authentic and intimate.

FAQs for Visiting Musée du Vin et du Négoce

Is the wine tasting included in the ticket price?
Yes, tastings of two or more wines are typically included.

Can I book a guided tour?
Yes, guided visits and workshops are available and can be booked in advance.

Is the museum suitable for beginners?
Absolutely—the exhibits explain everything from grape varieties to trade routes.

Are children allowed?
Yes, though the content is mostly geared toward adults; tastings are for 18+.

How long should I plan for the visit?
Around one hour, longer if you join a workshop.

Nearby Attractions to Musée du Vin et du Négoce

  • Cité du Vin: A major wine museum celebrating global wine cultures.
  • Les Halles de Bacalan: A modern covered market with great food stalls.
  • Place des Quinconces: One of Europe's largest squares with striking monuments.
  • CAPC Museum of Contemporary Art: Housed in a historic warehouse.
  • Chartrons Riverside: Scenic riverside walks with cafés and boutiques.

The Musée du Vin et du Négoce appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bordeaux!

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!

Visiting Musée du Vin et du Négoce

Address: Musée du Vin et du Négoce de Bordeaux, Rue Borie, Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux: 2 km
Official Website

Nearby Attractions

Similar Blogs