The Kings of Bordeaux
Bordeaux is famous for its blends. Unlike Burgundy, which favours single-varietal wines, Bordeaux blends several varieties to create complex and balanced wines.
Red grape varieties
Merlot — The dominant variety
Merlot accounts for over 65% of Bordeaux’s vineyards. It produces wines that are:
- Round, supple, with silky tannins
- With aromas of plum, black cherry and chocolate
- Which are best enjoyed relatively young
Iconic wines: Pomerol (Pétrus), Saint-Émilion
Cabernet Sauvignon — The structure
The king of Médoc grape varieties offers:
- Firm tannins and lovely acidity
- Aromas of blackcurrant, green pepper and pencil lead
- Exceptional ageing potential (20 to 50 years)
Iconic wines: Pauillac (Mouton Rothschild), Saint-Julien
Cabernet Franc — Elegance
More vegetal and fragrant than Cabernet Sauvignon:
- Aromas of raspberry, violet and pencil lead
- Finer tannins
- A major component in Saint-Émilion and Pomerol
White grape varieties
Sauvignon Blanc
The dominant variety in dry white Bordeaux wines (Pessac-Léognan, Entre-Deux-Mers):
- Fresh and lively, with notes of citrus and boxwood
- Excellent as an aperitif with seafood
Sémillon
Essential for Sauternes and Barsac:
- Aromas of honey, candied apricot and beeswax
- Susceptible to Botrytis cinerea (noble rot)
How to blend?
The art of Bordeaux lies in the blend. For each vintage, the cellar master selects the proportions to express the terroir whilst balancing power, finesse and fruit.
