What makes exploring the Bordeaux Wine Region in France enticing for oenophiles
Hello, fellow wine enthusiasts! How are all of you oenophiles doing? We hope your glasses are full, your palates are satisfied, and your spirits are high. After all, happiness, health, and a deep passion for wine are the ultimate trifecta of joy for us connoisseurs. Keeping these words aside, let us pose a question: Have any of you fine folks made plans for your summer vacation yet? No? Well, that won’t do! But fear not, we have a suggestion that might just make your summer one to remember. How about exploring the adventurous Bordeaux wine region in France this year?
As a wine enthusiast, you may be aware of Bordeaux and its importance in the wine industry. Bordeaux is not just a place in France. Instead, it is the name that resonates with a sense of history, tradition, and unparalleled viticultural excellence.
So, dear friends, allow us to take you on a journey through the vineyards of the Bordeaux wine region. In this comprehensive guide, we unravel detailed information about the Bordeaux wine region in France. In the end, we’ll mention the reasons why you should plan a vacation to Bordeaux this summer.
Where is Bordeaux Located?
Bordeaux is a city in the southwestern part of France. Situated on the Garonne River, it serves as the capital of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. As per the January 2020 census, the city and its suburbs boast a population of 1,376,375. Therefore, it is regarded as the sixth-most populated area in France. The city has unique geographical features, climate, culture, and, of course, a winemaking process. Speaking of winemaking, Bordeaux is also regarded as ‘A Global Capital of Wine.’
And, undoubtedly, it surely is. According to an official 2015 report, the Bordeaux wine region is home to around 60 appellations, 6,000 different chateaux, 61 grand cru classés, and over 13,000 wine growers. In 2020, the Bordeaux region produced around 440 million liters of wine (As per Jancis Robinson). This makes Bordeaux the largest wine-producing region not only in France but in the whole world.
Bordeaux Wine Region: What, Exactly, is Here & How is it Divided?
Situated along the Garonne and Dordogne rivers, the Bordeaux wine region is divided into several sub-regions, each characterized by unique soil compositions, microclimates, and grape varieties. As mentioned before, the Bordeaux region consists of several appellations or legally defined wine-growing areas. Each of the appellations is renowned for a specific type of wine. However, it is worth mentioning that the Bordeaux wine region was initially particularly famous for its sweet white wines (from Sauternes appellation). It was a time of the 18th century when white wines were more popular than dry red wines. As the 19th century reached its middle, the popularity of red Bordeaux wines slowly started increasing. Primarily, the red wines were sourced from the northern side of Bordeaux.
Difference Between Left Bank & Right Bank of the Bordeaux Wine Region (IMPORTANT POINT)
If you have visited Bordeaux once, you might have heard of the ‘Left Bank’ and ‘Right Bank’ of the Bordeaux wine region. But how many of you know the exact meaning and difference between these two? Very few! Well, there’s nothing to worry about. Here, we have provided accurate information.
Left Bank
The ‘Left Bank’ is situated to the west of the Gironde Estuary and the Garonne River. It is home to several appellations, such as Médoc, Margaux, Bordeaux, Graves, and Pessac-Léognan. The Left Bank is also known for Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blends and age-worthy wines that often exhibit flavors of blackcurrant, cedar, tobacco, and graphite.
Right Bank
The ‘Right Bank’ is located east of the Dordogne River and is home to renowned appellations such as Saint-Émilion and Pomerol. Famed for Melot-driver wines (which have lush textures & ripe fruit flavors), the right bank consists of some of the top-performing appellations and châteaux.
How Many Appellations Are There in the Bordeaux Wine Region?
As a wine enthusiast, you may know about Appellations.
‘Appellations are legally defined and protected geographical areas where grapes are grown, and wines are produced.’
Appellations are typically characterized by specific climate, soil, and topographical features. That’s why wines produced in these areas are different and distinct. In total, there are 60 appellations within the Bordeaux wine region. Due to the availability of a diverse tapestry of appellations, the Bordeaux wine region stands tall as the biggest contributor to the winemaking sector. The names of all 60 appellations are given below.
1. Médoc
2. Haut-Médoc
3. Listrac-Médoc
4. Moulis-en-Médoc
5. Margaux
6. Saint-Julien
7. Pauillac
8. Saint-Estèphe
9. Graves
10. Pessac-Léognan
11. Barsac
12. Sauternes
13. Premieres Côtes de Bordeaux
14. Cadillac
15. Loupiac
16. Sainte-Croix-du-Mont
17. Cérons
18. Entre-Deux-Mers
19. Blaye
20. Bourg
21. Fronsac
22. Canon-Fronsac
23. Lalande-de-Pomerol
24. Pomerol
25. Saint-Émilion
26. Lussac-Saint-Émilion
27. Montagne-Saint-Émilion
28. Puisseguin-Saint-Émilion
29. Côtes de Bordeaux-Saint-Macaire
30. Côtes de Bordeaux-Blaye
31. Côtes de Bordeaux-Cadillac
32. Côtes de Bordeaux-Castillon
33. Côtes de Bordeaux-Francs
34. Côtes de Bourg
35. Côtes de Blaye
36. Côtes de Bordeaux
37. Graves de Vayres
38. Premières Côtes de Bordeaux
39. Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux
40. Sainte-Foy-Bordeaux
41. Francs Côtes de Bordeaux
42. Bordeaux
43. Bordeaux Supérieur
44. Crémant de Bordeaux
45. Premières Côtes de Bordeaux
46. Côtes de Bordeaux-Saint-Macaire
47. Côtes de Bordeaux-Blaye
48. Côtes de Bordeaux-Cadillac
49. Côtes de Bordeaux-Castillon
50. Côtes de Bordeaux-Francs
51. Côtes de Bourg
52. Côtes de Blaye
53. Côtes de Bordeaux
54. Graves de Vayres
55. Premières Côtes de Bordeaux
56. Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux
57. Sainte-Foy-Bordeaux
58. Francs Côtes de Bordeaux
59. Bordeaux Rosé
60. Bordeaux Clairet
What Types of Wines are Mainly Being Produced Within the Bordeaux Region?
The main types of wines produced within the Bordeaux region include:
Red Wines
The Bordeaux region is dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon blends. Bordeaux Red wines are mainly produced in the Left Bank appellations, such as Pauillac, Saint-Julien, and Medoc.
White Wines
White wines (typically a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon Grapes) are particularly being produced in appellations such as Graves and Pessac-Léognan. Moreover, the Bordeaux wine region is also known for its world-famous sweet white wines.
Rosé and Sparkling Wines:
In the 18th century, the production of Rosé and Sparkling Wines was the reason behind the popularity of Bordeaux. No doubt – Over time, their popularity has gradually decreased. Still, Rosé and Sparkling Wines of Bordeaux have distinct flavors. Rosé wines (like Heartbeat Hot Rose Wine) are typically made from Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Cabernet Franc Grapes. Meanwhile, sparkling wines are made using traditional methods.
An Important Stats
According to Wine Searcher’s report, the Bordeaux region produced 84.5% red wine, 10% white wine, 4.5% rose wine, and 1% sweet wine in 2020.
Why You Should Plan a Tour of the Bordeaux Wine Region this Summer
If you’re a true wine enthusiast, consider exploring the Bordeaux wine region once in a lifetime. It is a place where you’ll be a new version of yourself. For a moment, imagine exploring different appellations each day and getting detailed information about the growth of grapes and the making of wines. Now, that would be a true wine masterclass. So, don’t think much; book your tickets to Bordeaux and indulge in the exciting adventures of appellations and wineries. One more thing, try to book a local guide as it would be much easier for you to explore the famous and least popular areas. Here are some of the valid reasons why a trip to Bordeaux should be on every wine lover’s bucket list.
1. Unparalleled Wine Heritage
Bordeaux is one of the world’s most renowned wine regions, with a rich history dating back centuries. Exploring the region will take you on a captivating journey through the evolution of winemaking in general.
2. Legendary Appellations, Châteaux and Vineyards
As mentioned before, the Bordeaux region is home to several iconic appellations, châteaux, and vineyards. Each place has its own story to tell, and Exploring Bordeaux would offer you an opportunity to gain deep insights into these places.
3. Wine Tasting and Education
Since Bordeaux holds such significant importance in the global wine industry, you’ll find plenty of wine-tasting events, wine bars, and unique educational seminars.
Explore Royal Batch’s Collection of Bordeaux Wines!With years of experience, Royal Batch is the leading online liquor store. We provide a wide range of wines of different brands and sizes, fulfilling your demands. Consider checking out our exquisite wine collection, which features Stella Rosa Wine, Walking Dead wine, & more. With a meticulous focus on quality and authenticity, our collection savors the elegance and timeless appeal of iconic wine brands. Also, we’ve made available some wines for sale. So, don’t let this opportunity waste. Explore our wine collection to shop now. Moreover, stay tuned with us to get more such informative blog posts. Thanks for reading!
.jpg)
0
