Velo et vigne : Bordeaux in winter.   The best area for riding that has interesting hills and valleys, climbs and descents, is in and around St.Emilion.  Just a few impressive wineries as well, Lalande de Pomerol, Pomerol, Petrus right in the middle, and the beauty and exceptional quality of St. Emilion as a crown jewel, and culmination of the riding and of the tasting.

More Velo et Vigne, this time on another continent; in a developing area for quality wines.  Canada's Okanagan, in central British Columbia.  Excellent cycling, home of the KVR, the Kettle Valley Railway, transformed into cycling paths with unbelievable trestle bridges over impressive gorges.  Through the Okanagan valley these trails wind among the 180 vineyards with production of excellent Cabernet Franc, Syrahs, refreshing Pinot Grigios, and developing French blends.  Vines aging among the sage and the thyme, lakes below and mountains above and a sinuous trail for the bike through it all.  It's hot and dry, the smell of mountain herbs is in the air as you ride.  A winery visit to wind up the day?  Few better possibilities for French Chardonnays, Syrahs or French style blends than Painted Rock.