Bordeaux Wine Overview (Beginner Level)

1. The Region

Bordeaux is one of the world’s most famous wine regions. It lies in the southwest of France, near the Atlantic Ocean. The area has a mild, fairly wet climate. This helps grapes ripen slowly and develop flavour, but the rain also means growers must watch carefully for vine diseases and rot.

The region’s main rivers — the Gironde, Garonne, and Dordogne — divide Bordeaux into two main areas:

• The Left Bank, with gravel soils, is best for Cabernet Sauvignon.
• The Right Bank, with clay and limestone soils, suits Merlot and Cabernet Franc.

2. Main Grape Varieties

Red Grapes

• Cabernet Sauvignon – Gives deep colour, strong structure, and flavours of blackcurrant and cedar.
• Merlot – Softer and rounder, with plum and red cherry flavours.
• Cabernet Franc – Adds freshness and floral notes to blends.
• Petit Verdot – Used in small amounts for colour and spice.

White Grapes

• Sémillon – Smooth and rich; used for both dry and sweet wines.
• Sauvignon Blanc – Crisp and fresh, with citrus and grassy flavours.
• Muscadelle – Adds floral perfume to white blends.

3. Main Wine Styles

• Red Bordeaux: Can be firm and powerful (Cabernet-based, Left Bank) or softer and fruitier (Merlot-based, Right Bank).
• Dry White Bordeaux: Fresh and citrusy, often a mix of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon.
• Sweet Bordeaux: Rich and honeyed, made from grapes affected by “noble rot”, especially in Sauternes and Barsac.

4. Why Bordeaux Is Special

Bordeaux’s success comes from its ideal climate, diverse soils, and tradition of blending grapes. This balance creates wines that can be fresh and fruity when young, yet complex and long-lived at their best.