by Rex Guo and Signal Zhang, MIFFT2026
For a London Business School student, a weekend is rarely just a “break.” It is a chance to dive into a new industry, pressure-test classroom theories, and build a global network.
Recently, the Wine & Spirits Club at LBS organised an immersive trek to Bordeaux, proving that the most profound case studies aren’t always found in a textbook: sometimes, they are bottled in oak.
Médoc Tour
Our first stop was Médoc, where we explored the region’s Cabernet-driven style and learned how classification and consistency have helped define Bordeaux on the global stage. Along the way, we gained a clearer understanding of Bordeaux’s appellation system and picked up practical tasting techniques on how to assess a wine by its aroma and color before the first sip.
Bordeaux Food + Walking Tour
Back in the city, we explored Bordeaux on foot through the Old Town. Along the way, we sampled local favorites like canelés, tried a variety of excellent cheeses paired with wines, and shared plenty of laughs and conversations with peers. With a glass in hand, it quickly became one of the most memorable moments of the weekend.
Château d’Agassac Visit
Another day brought a château tour and tasting at Château d’Agassac. From cellar details to the estate’s heritage, it offered a behind-the-scenes look at how craftsmanship and storytelling shape the wine experience.
Saint-Émilion Tour
In the afternoon, we kicked off the trip with a guided visit to Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, surrounded by seemingly endless vineyards, where we wandered medieval streets and learned how Bordeaux built its global reputation for wine.
Cité du Vin
In the last day, we wrapped up at Cité du Vin, Bordeaux’s wine museum, with an interactive deep dive into global wine culture. Through immersive exhibits, it showcases how wine is produced and introduces key grape varieties and classification concepts, making the experience quite engaging and memorable.
AT LAST…
In a demanding term, this trek was a reminder that at LBS, learning is social, global, and deeply intertwined with the real world. Bordeaux gave us beautiful wines, but the LBS community gave us a rare weekend where academic curiosity and genuine friendship blended as naturally as a fine cuvée.
