Bordeaux Wine Month at Cellar Door Wines

Exploring the Wines of Bordeaux: A Journey Through France's Premier Wine Region

Where is Bordeaux?

Nestled in the southwest of France, Bordeaux lies gracefully next to the Atlantic Ocean, benefiting from a maritime climate that plays a crucial role in its wine production. This vast and varied region is traversed by two major rivers, the Gironde and the Dordogne, which not only define its landscape but also contribute to the unique microclimates found within each appellation. These microclimates are part of what makes Bordeaux's wines so diverse and complex.

While the name may be tricky to spell (it’s French, after all!), it’s pronounced simply as "Bordow." Bordeaux is not just the largest appellation in France; it’s arguably the most successful wine-producing region in the world. This region is celebrated for its capacity to produce some of the finest and most sought-after wines globally.

The Geography of Bordeaux

Bordeaux is divided into two primary areas by its rivers, known as the Left Bank and the Right Bank, each with its distinct characteristics and wine styles.

• Left Bank: This area includes the Medoc and Haut-Medoc, along with the Graves region. The wines here are predominantly crafted from Cabernet Sauvignon, which thrives in the gravelly soils of the Left Bank.
• Right Bank: Known for the prestigious appellations of Saint-Émilion and Pomerol, the Right Bank is where Merlot dominates, thanks to the clay-limestone soils that suit this grape variety perfectly.
• Entre-deux-Mers: Literally meaning "between two seas," this area lies between the Gironde and Dordogne rivers. It’s a region known for producing excellent white wines, primarily from Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon.

Unlike other wine regions in France, Bordeaux is relatively flat, especially in the Medoc area, which is a defining feature of its landscape.

Photo by Wine Folly (Bordeaux Regions)

What is Bordeaux Wine?

Bordeaux is synonymous with red wine, although the region produces an impressive variety of styles. The most famous Bordeaux red wines are blends, typically made from a combination of grape varieties, each contributing different characteristics to the final product.

• Cabernet Sauvignon: Predominantly grown on the Left Bank, this grape is a cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. It is known for its strong tannins, deep colour, and ability to age gracefully.
• Cabernet Franc: A parent of Cabernet Sauvignon, this grape adds finesse and a hint of spice to Bordeaux blends.
• Merlot: The most planted grape in Bordeaux, Merlot is the star of the Right Bank. It thrives in the clay-limestone soils, producing wines that are softer and more approachable than those dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon.
• Petit Verdot: Often used in small quantities (less than 10%), Petit Verdot adds spiciness, colour, and acidity to the blend.
• Malbec and Carmenere: Both of these grapes historically played significant roles in Bordeaux wine production but are now found only in minority amounts.

While red wines dominate, Bordeaux is also famous for its exquisite white wines and sweet wines:

• Semillon: This grape is the backbone of the sweet wines from Sauternes and Barsac, where it is often affected by noble rot (botrytis) to create wines of incredible richness and complexity.
• Sauvignon Blanc: Widely planted in the Pessac-Léognan and Entre-deux-Mers vineyards, Sauvignon Blanc is known for its crisp acidity and vibrant flavours, making it a key component in both dry white and sweet Bordeaux wines.

Celebrating Bordeaux: A September Tradition

Every September, wine lovers around the world turn their attention to Bordeaux, and Cellar Door Wines is no exception. In September 2024, we are celebrating Bordeaux with a special focus at our shop in St Albans. Throughout the month, visitors will have the opportunity to taste 16 different wines (8 reds, 8 whites) from our wine dispensers. It’s a unique chance to explore the rich diversity of Bordeaux wines firsthand.

On Saturday, 14th of September, we’re hosting a Bordeaux tasting event, complete with a wonderful lunch. This is an excellent opportunity to deepen your knowledge of one of the world’s top wine-producing regions. Our Managing Director, Penny, will also be holding a masterclass during the event, where attendees can gain insights into Bordeaux’s complex wine landscape. Tickets for this exclusive event can be purchased [here].

Whether you’re a seasoned Bordeaux enthusiast or a curious novice, September is the perfect time to immerse yourself in the wines of Bordeaux, discovering new favourites and deepening your appreciation for this storied region. Raise a glass and join us in celebrating the wines of Bordeaux!