Chronicles of Cork: A Tour of Bordeaux with The Toronto Hunt Members

When Lynn Elmhirst—producer and host of World’s Greatest Cruises—invited me to collaborate on filming two episodes in Bordeaux, I knew it would be something special. With her expertise in luxury cruising and my deep connections in the wine world, we set out to create something truly memorable.

The experience became even richer when a small group of Toronto Hunt Members joined us for an 11-day journey aboard the elegant Scenic Diamond.

Bordeaux, the capital of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, is a UNESCO World Heritage city celebrated as one of the world’s great wine capitals. Set along the Garonne River, it blends 18th-century neoclassical architecture with iconic landmarks like the Miroir d’Eau, all within reach of legendary vineyards.

Château Clarke: A Rothschild Legacy

Our wine journey began almost immediately. After sailing to Libourne, we traveled to the renowned Château Clarke, where we were welcomed warmly by the estate team—and by the elegant Eve de Rothschild.

The estate felt like a living museum, filled with sculptures, art, and breathtaking gardens overlooking meticulously maintained vineyards. While Lynn and I prepared for filming, the Members toured the grounds.

During our interview, Eve shared the powerful legacy of her family. Château Clarke dates back to Cistercian monks, was formally established in 1771, and later revitalized by Baron Edmond de Rothschild in 1973 as a passion project.

In the tasting room, joined by winemaker Fabrice Darmaillacq, we sampled:

• 2022 Château Clarke – a Merlot-dominant blend with rich notes of plum, cassis, and cedar
• Le Merle Blanc – a rare Médoc white, beautifully balanced and oak-aged
• Les Granges des Domaines Edmond de Rothschild – a refined and expressive second wine

Each wine reflected precision, elegance, and the estate’s steady rise in quality.

Saint-Émilion & Jonathan Maltus

Later that day, we explored Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO-listed village famed for its Merlot-driven wines and stunning limestone architecture.

The following day brought a true highlight: meeting the legendary Jonathan Maltus.

At Château Le Dôme, Jonathan personally guided us through a tasting of the 2015 and 2019 vintages. Known for its unusually high Cabernet Franc content, Le Dôme delivers remarkable structure and finesse.

The 2019 stood out with layers of violet, black cherry, plum, mocha, and spice, wrapped in what can only be described as “cashmere-like” tannins.

Jonathan reflected on receiving a perfect 100-point score from Robert Parker for the 2010 vintage—an achievement that contributed to his being awarded an OBE.

We later joined him at Château Teyssier for an unforgettable lunch. Exceptional wines, warm hospitality—and quite possibly the best steak I’ve ever had.

Life Onboard & Bordeaux’s Legacy

Back on the ship, we hosted a private dinner for the Members, showcasing wines from both banks of Bordeaux.

I shared the region’s history, from Roman origins to the landmark 1855 Bordeaux Classification, which established the concept of “First Growth” wines—the finest in class.

We explored the defining contrast:

Left Bank – Cabernet Sauvignon dominance

Right Bank – Merlot-driven blends

The evening was a perfect fusion of education, cuisine, and exceptional wine.

Sauternes: Liquid Gold

One of the most memorable stops was in Sauternes, home to some of the world’s finest sweet wines.

At the legendary Château d'Yquem—the only estate classified as Premier Cru Supérieur—we explored a 400-year legacy of excellence. These wines, shaped by noble rot (Botrytis cinerea), offer unmatched depth and longevity.

We also visited Château de Malle, a historic property with gardens inspired by Versailles. Tasting a 20-year-old vintage there was a rare and unforgettable privilege.

Grand Finale: Cognac Excellence

Our final stop brought us into the world of fine spirits at Louis XIII.

Crafted from up to 1,200 eaux-de-vie aged between 40 and 100 years, this iconic Cognac is the pinnacle of complexity and refinement. Notes of candied fruit, spice, and sandalwood linger endlessly. The Members were captivated—especially during the tasting.

A Journey to Remember

This journey through Bordeaux was more than a trip—it was a celebration of wine, history, craftsmanship, and connection.

From legendary estates to intimate tastings, from world-class cuisine to shared laughter, it was an unforgettable adventure—one that perfectly blended luxury, learning, and pure enjoyment.

Marcel Bregstein Chevalier, CCM/Sommelier

With a rich background in hospitality and wine, Marcel Bregstein has an extensive career in the Food and Beverage industry. He holds a degree in Business from the and the University of Toronto, and furthered his education in F&B Management, Catering, Wines One and Two, and Club Operations at George Brown College. Marcel took the International Sommelier Guild Program at Humber College and is currently enrolled in the prestigious Master of Wine program.

Marcel achieved the CCM Certification in 2017.

Since 1997, Marcel has worked at The Toronto Hunt in various roles, including F&B Manager, Clubhouse Manager, and currently, Assistant General Manager. His previous experience includes positions at fine restaurants, Royal Caribbean International, and The Royal York Hotel.

A recognized leader in the industry, Marcel is involved in several professional associations, including being the Cellar Master and a member of the International Wine and Food Society for over a decade. He serves as Chair of the F&B Advisory Committee at George Brown College and is a member of the Centennial College Cabinet and the Event Planning Advisory Committee. He has also taught wine courses at George Brown College and hosted renowned wine figures, such as Julien de Rothschild, Barone Francesco Ricasoli, and Eduardo Chadwick.

Marcel's dedication extends beyond his professional work; he is a former President of the Ontario Branch of the Club Managers Association of Canada (CMAC), where he developed a Wine Program in partnership with George Brown College. He was also instrumental in founding the F&B National Conference and the annual Networking Social Ontario Branch event.

In 2015, Marcel was inducted into the prestigious Ordre de Coteaux de Champagne and knighted by Mr. Taittinger, becoming one of only four Canadians to receive the title "Chevalier."

Beyond his career in wine and hospitality, Marcel has supported charitable causes, raising over $1,000,000 through Guinness World Record attempts to sabre the most bottles in one minute. He has been featured in publications like Wine Access and on major TV networks, including Global TV and CTV Breakfast Television. Marcel had a small part on the Movie “A Tail of Love” and the mini series “Rising Suns”.  

A passionate traveler, Marcel has explored the world’s most celebrated wine regions and is now producing a wine show for PBS where he engages with some of the globe's top winemakers. The World’s Greatest Wine Trips with Marcel Bregstein will air on PBS in 2026.

Marcel is a dedicated family man, the father of two daughters and grandfather to a 14-year-old boy. He is an avid marathoner with 10 completed races, and he stays active with hobbies such as yoga, tennis, and golf.