Overview of Bordeaux Wine Regions

Bordeaux is divided into several sub-regions, each with its own unique characteristics and specialties. These sub-regions are often referred to as “appellations,” a term that signifies a legally defined and protected geographical indication used to identify where the grapes for a wine were grown. The concept of appellations is central to understanding Bordeaux wines, as each appellation has specific regulations governing grape varieties, production methods, and quality standards.

Left Bank vs. Right Bank

One of the first distinctions to understand is the difference between the Left Bank and the Right Bank of the Gironde Estuary. The Left Bank is known for its “Cabernet Sauvignon” dominated wines, while the Right Bank is more famous for its “Merlot” based wines. The Left Bank includes famous appellations such as Médoc, Margaux, and Pauillac, while the Right Bank includes Pomerol and Saint-Émilion.

The Médoc

The Médoc is one of the most prestigious wine-producing areas on the Left Bank. It is subdivided into several smaller appellations, including Haut-Médoc, Margaux, Saint-Julien, Pauillac, and Saint-Estèphe. The wines from this area are typically rich, full-bodied, and have excellent aging potential. Key terms associated with the Médoc include “Cru,” which refers to a vineyard or group of vineyards, and “Château,” which denotes a wine estate.

Graves and Sauternes

Graves is another important area on the Left Bank, known for both red and white wines. The red wines are similar to those of the Médoc, but the white wines, often made from Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, are highly regarded for their complexity and aging potential. Sauternes, located within Graves, is famous for its sweet, botrytized wines. “Botrytis cinerea,” also known as “noble rot,” is a fungus that concentrates the sugars in the grapes, resulting in the luscious sweetness of Sauternes wines.

Pomerol and Saint-Émilion

On the Right Bank, Pomerol and Saint-Émilion are the two most significant appellations. Pomerol is known for its lush, opulent wines made predominantly from Merlot. Saint-Émilion, on the other hand, produces wines that are often a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The classification system in Saint-Émilion is unique, with categories such as “Premier Grand Cru Classé A,” “Premier Grand Cru Classé B,” and “Grand Cru Classé.”

Key Vocabulary for Bordeaux Wines

To navigate the world of Bordeaux wines, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with some key vocabulary. Here are some terms that will help you understand the labels, descriptions, and characteristics of these wines.

Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC)

The AOC system is a French certification granted to certain geographical indications for wines, cheeses, and other agricultural products. In Bordeaux, the AOC system ensures that wines meet specific criteria related to grape variety, production methods, and quality. Each Bordeaux appellation has its own AOC designation, which guarantees the wine’s origin and adherence to strict standards.

Terroir

“Terroir” is a French term that refers to the unique combination of soil, climate, and geography that gives a wine its distinctive character. In Bordeaux, the concept of terroir is paramount, as the region’s diverse soils and microclimates contribute to the complexity and variety of its wines. Understanding terroir helps explain why wines from different appellations, even within the same region, can taste so different.

Cru

“Cru” is a term used to denote a vineyard or group of vineyards that produce high-quality wine. In Bordeaux, the term is often associated with classifications such as “Grand Cru” or “Premier Cru,” which indicate a wine’s rank within a specific classification system. For example, in the Médoc, the 1855 Classification ranks wines from First Growth (Premier Cru) to Fifth Growth (Cinquième Cru).

Château

“Château” is a term used to describe a wine estate in Bordeaux. It is often followed by the name of the estate, such as Château Margaux or Château Latour. The term implies a certain level of quality and tradition, as many of these estates have been producing wine for centuries. The château name is usually prominent on the wine label, making it easy to identify the producer.

Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon

Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon are the two most important grape varieties in Bordeaux. Merlot is the dominant grape on the Right Bank, known for its soft, plummy flavors and approachable tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon is the king of the Left Bank, prized for its structure, complexity, and aging potential. Understanding the characteristics of these two grapes can help you appreciate the differences between wines from various Bordeaux appellations.

Botrytis Cinerea

As mentioned earlier, Botrytis cinerea, or “noble rot,” is a fungus that plays a crucial role in the production of sweet wines like Sauternes. This fungus concentrates the sugars in the grapes, resulting in wines with intense sweetness and rich, honeyed flavors. The presence of noble rot is considered a mark of quality and is a key factor in the unique character of Sauternes wines.

Reading a Bordeaux Wine Label

Understanding how to read a Bordeaux wine label is essential for selecting and appreciating these wines. The label provides important information about the wine’s origin, producer, and quality level. Here are some key elements to look for on a Bordeaux wine label.

Appellation

The appellation indicates the geographical origin of the wine and is usually prominently displayed on the label. For example, you might see “Appellation Margaux Contrôlée” or “Appellation Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Contrôlée.” This designation tells you where the grapes were grown and ensures that the wine meets the AOC standards for that region.

Château Name

The name of the château or wine estate is another important element on the label. The château name often reflects the history and reputation of the estate, providing clues about the wine’s quality and style. For example, Château Lafite Rothschild and Château Mouton Rothschild are both renowned estates in Pauillac, known for producing some of the finest wines in Bordeaux.

Vintage

The vintage year indicates the year the grapes were harvested. In Bordeaux, the vintage can have a significant impact on the wine’s quality and character, as weather conditions vary from year to year. Some vintages are considered exceptional, while others may be less favorable. Knowing the vintage can help you assess the potential quality and aging potential of the wine.

Classification

If the wine comes from a classified estate, the label may include its classification rank. For example, you might see “Premier Grand Cru Classé” or “Cinquième Cru Classé” on a Médoc wine label. In Saint-Émilion, you might see “Premier Grand Cru Classé A” or “Grand Cru Classé.” These classifications provide additional information about the wine’s quality and prestige.

Alcohol Content

The alcohol content, usually expressed as a percentage, is another important piece of information on the label. Bordeaux wines typically have an alcohol content ranging from 12% to 15%. The alcohol level can give you an indication of the wine’s body and intensity, with higher alcohol wines generally being fuller-bodied and more robust.

The Bordeaux Wine Classification Systems

Bordeaux has several classification systems that rank the region’s wines based on quality and reputation. These classifications can be a helpful guide when selecting wines, as they provide insight into the relative prestige and quality of different estates.

The 1855 Classification

The 1855 Classification is one of the most famous and enduring wine classifications in the world. Commissioned by Napoleon III for the Exposition Universelle de Paris, this classification ranks the top wine estates of the Médoc and Sauternes. The Médoc wines are divided into five growths (crus), with First Growths (Premiers Crus) being the highest rank. The Sauternes wines are classified into three categories: Premiers Crus Supérieurs, Premiers Crus, and Deuxièmes Crus.

The Graves Classification

The Graves Classification, established in 1953 and revised in 1959, ranks the top wine estates in the Graves region. Unlike the 1855 Classification, which separates red and white wines, the Graves Classification includes both under the same ranking. The classified estates are known for their high-quality red and white wines, with Château Haut-Brion being the most famous example.

The Saint-Émilion Classification

The Saint-Émilion Classification, first established in 1955 and revised every ten years, ranks the top wine estates in the Saint-Émilion appellation. The classification has three main categories: Premier Grand Cru Classé A, Premier Grand Cru Classé B, and Grand Cru Classé. The Premier Grand Cru Classé A category is the highest rank and includes some of the most prestigious estates in the region, such as Château Ausone and Château Cheval Blanc.

The Crus Bourgeois

The Crus Bourgeois classification, established in 1932 and revised several times since, ranks the wines of the Médoc that were not included in the 1855 Classification. The classification has three levels: Cru Bourgeois, Cru Bourgeois Supérieur, and Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel. This system provides recognition for high-quality wines from lesser-known estates and offers a more affordable alternative to the classified growths.

Wine Tasting and Pairing Tips

Understanding the vocabulary and classifications of Bordeaux wines is only part of the equation. To fully appreciate these wines, it’s essential to know how to taste and pair them with food.

Tasting Bordeaux Wines

When tasting Bordeaux wines, there are a few key steps to follow:

1. **Look**: Observe the wine’s color and clarity. Younger red wines will typically have a deep, vibrant color, while older wines may appear more brick-red or tawny. White wines range from pale straw to golden, depending on their age and style.

2. **Smell**: Swirl the wine in your glass to release its aromas, then take a deep sniff. Bordeaux wines are known for their complex aromas, which can include fruit, floral, herbal, and earthy notes. Take your time to identify the different scents.

3. **Taste**: Take a small sip and let the wine coat your palate. Pay attention to the wine’s balance, acidity, tannins, and flavors. Bordeaux wines often have layers of flavors that evolve over time, so take multiple sips to fully appreciate their complexity.

4. **Finish**: Consider the wine’s finish, or the lingering flavors and sensations after you swallow. A long, smooth finish is a hallmark of a high-quality Bordeaux wine.

Pairing Bordeaux Wines with Food

Bordeaux wines are versatile and can be paired with a wide range of dishes. Here are some general guidelines for pairing Bordeaux wines with food:

1. **Red Bordeaux**: These wines pair well with red meats, game, and rich, savory dishes. The tannins in Cabernet Sauvignon-based wines complement the fat and protein in meats, making them an excellent choice for steak, lamb, and duck. Merlot-based wines are more versatile and can pair with a variety of dishes, including roasted poultry, pork, and hearty vegetable dishes.

2. **White Bordeaux**: These wines are ideal for lighter fare, such as seafood, poultry, and salads. Sauvignon Blanc-dominated wines are crisp and refreshing, making them a great match for oysters, shrimp, and goat cheese. Sémillon-based wines have more body and richness, pairing well with dishes like roast chicken, creamy pasta, and grilled fish.

3. **Sauternes**: These sweet wines are perfect for dessert and can be paired with a variety of sweet and savory dishes. Classic pairings include foie gras, blue cheese, and fruit-based desserts like tarte tatin and crème brûlée. The sweetness and acidity of Sauternes also make them a great match for spicy Asian cuisine.

Conclusion

The vocabulary of Bordeaux wine regions is rich and complex, reflecting the history, tradition, and diversity of this renowned wine-producing area. By understanding key terms like appellation, terroir, cru, and château, as well as the distinctions between different grape varieties and classifications, you can deepen your appreciation and enjoyment of Bordeaux wines. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious beginner, this knowledge will enhance your wine-tasting experiences and help you navigate the world of Bordeaux with confidence. So the next time you pour yourself a glass of Bordeaux, take a moment to savor not just the flavors, but also the rich heritage and language that make these wines truly exceptional.