Bordeaux
When we talk about French wine, no one could neglect the existence of Bordeaux, the largest fine wine region in France and of course of the world. Bordeaux lies on the south west coast of France, hugged by three key rivers, Gironde from the west, Dordogne on the northeast and Garonne on the southeast. This perfect viticulture area has been recognized by the world since mid age.
Bordeaux produces sparkling (cremant), white (dry, sweet), Rose and reds. However, Bordeaux reds, contributing almost 90% of the production of Bordeaux, are more important than other wines from the area. The major grape varieties are:
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Reds - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot
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Whites - Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle.
In addition, Bordeaux blend means a red wine made up of the five red varieties listed above.
General speaking, the Bordeaux viticulture area is split into three parts – the all-important left bank (west south of Gironde and Garonne) and right bank (north east of Gironde and Dordogne), and the less important area – between the Garonne and the Dordogne. The left bank has predominantly gravel soil, which is suitable for Cabernet Sauvignon. Limestone and clay is the predominant soil on the right bank, where Merlot is favoured.
Besides the AC system, 1855 is an independent classification of premium wines from Medoc and Sauterne (left bank). It is a classification that shows the top pedigree of left bank Bordeaux. The system originally divided 61 estates into 5 classes, the best class is the first growth and the least good class is 5th growth. After the recent updates, another over 200 estates are added into Cru Bourgeois sections, which is divided into three levels – Crus Bourgeois Exceptionnel, Cru Bourgeois Superieur and Cru Bourgeois (from higher level to lower level respectively). Five first growth of Medoc are: Haut Brion, Latour, Lafite Rothschild, Mouton Rothschild and Margaux. The highest ranked Sauterne is d’Yquem (Premier Superior).
Saint Emillon’s classification is very unique, of which is integrated into Saint Emillon’s AC system. Pomerol does not have any further classification but world regards Petrus as the best.
