Bordeaux
Bordeaux was the first AOC produced in France, and is currently the most exported. Known for its elegance and balance, Bordeaux AOC wines are made primarily from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, which combine for a balance of tannins and fruit. Cabernet Franc can also be added to impart roundness and spicy aromas, and Malbec or Petit Verdot may be used sparingly. Bordeaux wines may be produced on the entire wine-producing area surrounding the Gironde Estuary.
Bordeaux Supérieur
This regional AOC has stricter production norms than Bordeaux AOC. Although made from the same grape varieties, rich Bordeaux Supérieur reds are produced from select plots and older vines, which gives them more concentrated, complex flavor and better potential for aging. Characteristically fruity and floral, Bordeaux Supérieur wines may also be aged in oak barrels for even more power and complexity.
Bordeaux Clairet
Light, voluptuous and fresh Bordeaux Clairets are a more aromatic version of Bordeaux AOC. These ruby-colored wines are silky and easy to drink with little tannins and a fruity bouquet with floral notes. Made in the same production area and from a blend of the same grape varieties as Bordeaux AOC wines, but Merlot often dominates, which explains Bordeaux Clairet's intensely aromatic character.
Bordeaux Rosé
This voluptuous, fresh and richly aromatic appellation stretches across the entire Gironde Estuary production area; however, the wines are difficult to produce because perfect appearance and color is a requirement, and they use a type of yeast that is sensitive to oxidation. Bordeaux rosé wines have gained popularity recently, especially as an excellent match for light, summer meals and ethnic dishes.
Crémant de Bordeaux (Sparkling Rosé)
This designation applies to specific rosé and white wines from the Bordeaux region that are produced using the equivalent of the French méthode champenoise. The rosé Crémant de Bordeaux wines are fruity and lean, yet surprisingly powerful and complex with red berry aromas. Grapes must be harvested by hand and delicately pressed to avoid extracting the red pigments of the skin in order to achieve ideal color. The wine is blind tasted twice, after the initial fermentation period and again after secondary fermentation in the bottle (which forms the bubbles).
Médoc
The most important red wine-producing area in Bordeaux, Médoc is home to wines bottled under the Margaux, Saint-Julien, Pauillac and Saint-Estephe appellations. Wines from the southern section of the region are known as Haut-Medoc. It is known best for the production of full-bodied, often oak-aged Reds with firm tannins derived from a soil mixture that includes gravel, limestone and sandy soils.
Haut-Médoc
The Haut-Médoc designation encompasses 25 townships in the part of Médoc closest to the city of Bordeaux. The wines have complex aromas that range widely, often with pleasant hints of woodiness because they are aged in oak barrels. Dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, which grows in the area's well-drained alluvial gravel terraces, Haut-Médoc wines may also contain Merlot, which thrives in deep, clay soils and, to a lesser extent, Petit Verdot or Malbec.
Listrac-Médoc
This territory is protected from winds by a vast forest nearby, which enables the vines to spread across graveled terraces and ripen slowly. Effective natural drainage also allows the roots to penetrate deeply. The result is powerful wines with good aging potential, characterized by deep color, complex aromas and a balanced, structured palate. Typically a blend of Merlot, which imparts strength and fruitiness, and Cabernet Sauvignon, which imparts structure, Listrac Médoc wines may also contain small amounts of Cabernet Franc to add fruitiness and spicy aromas.
Margaux
Some of the finest wine-growing soil gives this prestigious appellation an exceptional terroir (a third of the Grands Crus Classés come from this area). Margaux wines are elegant and delicate with exceptional aging potential and a complex bouquet that integrates fruity, floral, spicy and roasted aromas. Cabernet Sauvignon dominates these blends; Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot may be added.
Moulis
Named for windmills that dot the countryside, Moulis is the smallest appellation in the Médoc region, but it has a big reputation for elegant, robust wines with mellow tannins and a rich bouquet. These blends, principally Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, have exceptional aging potential. Gravel terraces alternating with silt and limestone are ideal for grape growing, while a pine forest contributes to a favorable microclimate and helps to protect the fruit as it ripens.
Pauillac
This appellation's hilly territory is celebrated for its soil, weather conditions and growing methods. Pauillac soil is actually quite poor for growing most plants, but grapevines thrive in the sandy gravel and their roots are able to penetrate the deep, underlying layer of clay and limestone. Cabernet Sauvignon accounts for the majority of this area's grapes, although Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec are also grown here. Distinguished Pauillac wines offer a delicate bouquet, robust tannins and great aging potential. The region also boasts 18 Grands Crus Classés.
Saint-Estèphe
Big, robust and powerful wines are a product of this area's well-drained gravel plateau and relatively cool temperatures. Saint-Estèphe wines are generally rich, fruity and well structured, produced largely of Cabernet Sauvignon blended with Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Their bouquet offers aromas of black currant, violet, mocha, vanilla, spices and licorice.
Saint-Julien
This small appellation at the center of Médoc is known for quality soil and excellent drainage and is best suited for Cabernet Sauvignon, though blends also may include some Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Saint-Julien wines are recognizable by their garnet robe, dense flavors, velvety tannins and an intense, complex bouquet.
Graves (Red)
Occupying a 50-kilometer strip of land ib vbn southern Bordeaux, Graves is named for, and the soil is comprised of, alluvial deposits from the Garonne River. Beneath the soil is almost pure sand, which provides rich nutrients for growing great wine grapes. Red wines from Graves are supple, firm and rich with notes of berries and floral aromas. Oak barrel aging imparts chocolate vanilla and roasted aromas. Merlot represents about half of the area's grapes, and about 40% are Cabernet Sauvignon.
Pessac-Léognan (Red)
Just south of the city of Bordeaux, Pessac-Léognan is most likely the place where wine growing began in Bordeaux around 2,000 years ago, and it is now home to many Crus Classés. Soil here is composed of a thick layer of gravel and stone with sand, hardpan and clay underneath. Reds from Pessac-Léognan are blended of equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, resulting in a cherry red robe with ripe flavors, a smoky bouquet and a long finish. Even young wines have structure and depth, but they can also age for many years.
Blaye
Located 45 kilometers north of the city of Bordeaux on the bank of the Gironde Estuary, where hills provide favorable sun exposure and ventilation, Blaye is the northernmost appellation in this region. Clay-limestone soils yield wines that are voluptuous, balanced and fruity, and they can be enjoyed young or aged. These blends are dominated by Merlot with some Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and occasional Petit Verdot.
Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux (Red)
Strong and fruity when young, musky and spicy with age, red wines from this region are also velvety and balanced. Located north of the city of Bordeaux, this is the largest of the Côtes appellations, and it consists of hills and valleys that provide almost constant ventilation of the vines. Mostly sunny weather tempered by water from the nearby Gironde Estuary is an ideal environment for Merlot, the predominant grape, as well as for some Cabernet Sauvignon and lesser amounts of Cabernet Franc and Malbec.
Bourg & Côtes de Bourg (Red)
Just south of Blaye, Bourg overlooks the merging Garonne and the Dordogne rivers, just 35 kilometers north of Bordeaux. The nearby waters help to temper the climate in winter and summer months. Merlot accounts for more than two-thirds of the Bourg & Côtes de Bourg red grapes because it thrives in the sandy gravel deposits covered with brown and red marl. These AOCs are produced by about 500 winemakers, and the wines are a deep purple color with full-bodied elegance, aromas of blackberries, and complexity that allows them to age five to 10 years in the bottle.
Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux
Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux is a narrow strip along the Garonne river that runs all the way from Bordeaux to Langon. Sun-drenched hills overlooking the Garonne produce naturally fruity wines that can be enjoyed young or aged. Merlot represents just over half of grapes planted here and contributes to the voluptuous nature of these wines, while Cabernet Sauvignon imparts spicy aromas and tannic structure. Blends may also include some Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Malbec.
Francs Côtes de Bordeaux (Red)
Consisting mainly of small, family-owned wineries, this AOC is the smallest in the Côtes de Bordeaux. Sunny conditions, minimal rain and sophisticated clay and limestone soils yield opulent red wines distinguished by their dense color. These wines have remarkable harmony, fine tannins and can be consumed young or aged from five to 10 years. Merlot is the primary grape, followed by Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Graves de Vayres (Red)
Situated along the Dordogne river about 30 kilometers east of Bordeaux and named for its gravelly soil, this appellation produces fruity, supple, velvety reds. A devastating freeze in 1956 led to massive replanting that reoriented the region toward red wines instead of white. Graves de Vayres offers the ideal Merlot terroir, though blends also include Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Wines are smooth and typically dominated by berry aromas. Depending on the amount of Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend, they may be enjoyed young or aged five to 10 years.
Sainte-Foy-Bordeaux (Red)
This lesser-known territory encompasses 19 villages with approximately 60 wine producers in the easternmost section of the Bordeaux region. Merlot-based Sante-Foy-Bordeaux reds boast power, complexity and opulence. Deep soils with lots of clay and limestone are excellent for growing Merlot, though winemakers may also include Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc in the blend. The resulting wines have deep texture and are a great match for red meat or wild fowl.
Saint-Emilion
Known as one of the principal red wine areas in Bordeaux–along with Medoc, Graves and Pomerol–this region primarily produces Merlot and Cabernet Franc wines that range from soft and medium bodied to deep and full bodied. Soils in the area are a varied mixture of limestone, clay, gravel and sand, depending on proximity to the sea. The walled, hilltop village of St. Emilion is extremely picturesque, having changed little in appearance since the Middle Ages.
Saint-Emilion Grand Cru
This appellation is produced on the same territory as Saint-Emilion; however, the Grand Cru wines adhere to more guidelines. Only small yields are permitted, so growers focus their efforts on producing highly concentrated colors, tannins and aromas, and the resulting wines are among the finest of the Bordeaux region with aging potential that often exceeds 10 years. They must be aged 12 months, then submitted for a second formal tasting. A unique aspect of Saint Emilion is that its classification system is reviewed for possible updating every 10 years based on tastings rather than market value.
Lussac-Saint-Emilion
This area is famous for its historical monuments, and for its complex and powerful, yet elegant, red wines. Hot summers, moderate rain, and soils with a base of clay and limestone are characteristic of the territory. A gravel plateau in the west and the water-retaining clay soils in the north are the ideal areas for wine growing. Like nearby Saint-Emilion, Merlot is most common, though Cabernet Franc is also a popular blending variety. These Reds are powerful and complex, yet elegant and refined, with luscious berry aromas.
Montagne-Saint-Emilion
A lesser-known appellation, yet a rising star in winemaking, Montagne-Saint-Emilion produces elegant, distinguished, full-bodied wines, thanks to a microclimate almost identical to the famous Saint-Emilion territory. However, because the soil has more gravel and sand, the wines are lighter, more delicate and less tannic blends of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. (Cabernet Sauvignon is not as common because it is more difficult to cultivate due to late ripening; therefore it is reserved for the warmest and best-exposed fields.) The terroir consists of clay and limestone soils over a thick layer of porous asteriated limestone, which provides water to the vines during the summer dry period. This region also has a turbulent history and is decorated with many historical monuments.
Puisseguin-Saint-Emilion
Northeast of Saint-Emilion, Puisseguin-Saint-Emilion is distinguished by its high elevation. South and southeast sun exposure provide excellent ripening conditions that produce concentrated grapes. Depite the steeper terrain, the soil is still the same clay-limestone mix found in the greater Saint-Emilion region, but here it layers over rocks that provide roots with nutrition to help sustain the vines through hot, dry summers. Resulting wines are little known yet full of character, primarily Merlot and Cabernet Franc blends with fleshy and full texture and deep color.
Saint-Georges Saint-Emilion
Bordeaux's smallest appellation, this little village is home to about 35 winegrowers. Wines produced here stand out due to very consistent clay-limestone soils over a layer of pure limestone, which provides water and nutrition to vines during dry periods. The soft sloping shape of the land also provides perfect drainage for Merlot and Cabernet Franc vines. Distinguished by dark color, wines produced here are enjoyed young and are tannic and very fruity with sophisticated spicy character.
Lalande-de-Pomerol
Famous for its terraces, Lalande-de-Pomerol has become a tremendously sought after appellation, mainly because the hilly area of Néac has clay deep in the ground that lends a wonderful dimension to Merlot, which accounts for 80% of vines planted (most of the rest is Cabernet Franc). The wines have exceptionally dark color with predominant berry aromas, tight tannins and velvety texture.
Pomerol
Vineyards planted in this area in the first century B.C. were abandoned during the Hundred Years War, and weren't replanted until the 15th century as a part of the Saint Emilion appellation. In 1936 Pomerol received its own, distinct appellation. Like Saint Emilion, the soil in Pomerol favors the Merlot grape, which makes up the majority of the wine produced here. These Reds are supple and velvety, and some Pomerol wines are among the most rare and expensive in the world.
Fronsac
Located where the Isle river flows into the larger Dordogne river, Fronsac enjoys a wet microclimate that reduces night frosts in spring and is cooling in summer. The area's steep slopes have varied alluvial soils at their base and deep chalk and clay below, all of which contributes to a spectacular terroir. Fronsac also has a very long history of wine production. Thanks to the deep soil, Merlots grown here are more substantial than in the surrounding appellations. Cabernet Franc contributes raspberry and round but powerful tannins to the wines. The result is masculine, full-bodied Reds with great aging potential, some as long as 10-15 years.
Canon-Fronsac
Like nearby Fronsac, this relatively small appellation overlooks the point where the Isle and Dordogne rivers meet. Water cools the air in summer and warms it in the spring, which creates an ideal microclimate for the vines. Clay-limestone soils with compact limestone beneath and relatively high, steep terrain result in strong, substantial wines. Winegrowers in Canon-Fronsac have completely changed the vines planet over the last century. Once Malbec was the most popular, but as Merlot proved more suited to the soil, it became the predominant varietal. A small portion of the land is also devoted to production of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Wines from this AOC have concentrated aromas and opulent texture with exceptional depth and long, intense, velvety finishes.
Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux (White)
Located north of the city of Bordeaux, this is the largest of the Côtes appellations, and it consists of hills and valleys that provide almost constant ventilation of the vines. Many hours of sunshine and soils dominated by clay and limestone are perfectly suited for Sauvignon and Sémillon; however, conditions are also good for Colombard and Ugni White, which represent no more than 30% of the vines. Wines are delicate and light in color, yet have intense, strong aromas typical of Sauvignon. Colombard and Ugni add freshness and liveliness, and blends are balanced by the roundness of Sémillon. The resulting blends are delicate and complex, ideal for apértifs or companions for seafood or white meat.
Bordeaux & Bordeaux Sec
Although most known for its Reds, Bordeaux also produces dry Whites with a perfect balance of Sauvignon's fruitiness and Sémillon's roundness. Muscadelle also represents less than 10% of the vines here. Grown throughout the Bordeaux region, each grape variety is planted in the microclimate and soil that best suits it. Loved for refined, subtle, fruity aromas and an elegance and liveliness that is balanced by roundness and strength, these dry white wines are exported to many countries.
Bourg & Côtes de Bourg (White)
Overlooking the area where the Garonne and Dordogne rivers intersect, vineyards sit on hillsides that receive ideal sun exposure, while nearby water creates a temperate microclimate. Clay-limestone soils top a porous stone platform that provides naturally good drainage. Lively, elegant, dry white wines are produced in small quantities by blending Sauvignon, Sémillon and Colombard.
Côtes de Blaye
This small appellation makes a big statement with its powerful, lively white wines bursting with freshness. The Colombard grape dominates, but is blended with at least one other variety, including Muscadelle, Sauvignon or Sémillon. Vines enjoy clay-limestone soil and are planted on sunny, well-ventilated hills in the north of Bordeaux near the town of Blaye. Refined and aromatic, Côtes de Blaye wines pair well with grilled fish and white meats.
Crémant de Bordeaux (Sparkling White)
White grape varietals from the Bordeaux region are used to create these dry, fruity, surprisingly complex and aromatic sparkling wines, which are produced using the equivalent of France's méthode champenoise. The grapes must be hand harvested and are blind tasted after the wine's initial fermentation period, and again after secondary fermentation in the bottle (which forms the bubbles). Crémants de Bordeaux has widely varying aromas that include citrus fruit, hazelnut and white flowers.
Entre-Deux-Mers
The largest region in Bordeaux, its name means "between two seas," but in this case, the "seas" are the Garonne and Dordogne rivers along its southern and northern borders, respectively. Because of its size and widely varying soils, the region features 10 different appellations and is recognized for its famous dry, white wines. The main grapes in production here are Sauvignon, Sémillon and Muscadelle.
Entre-Deux-Mers Haut-Benauge
This appellation includes nine townships at the center of the Entre-Deux-Mers region and is also named for Château de Benauge (now in ruins, but once the seat of governance for the region). The wine growing tradition was developed by monks. Vines grow on a slightly hilly landscape with limestone soil, resulting in wines that are aromatic, lively and supple with a thirst-quenching freshness. They can age two to four years and are excellent with deli meats, duck terrine or as an apértif.
Francs Côtes de Bordeaux (Dry White)
Noted mostly for its red wines, this appellation also produces a limited quantity of elegant, fruity and rich white wines with woody aromas. Made primarily with Sémillon blended with Muscadelle and Sauvignon, these dry wines must be aged one or two years to reach their potential. The area's high hilltops experience less rain than the rest of the Gironde Estuary. Most vineyards are small, which allows growers to give individual attention to each vine.
Graves (Dry White)
Occupying a 50-kilometer strip of land in southern Bordeaux, Graves is named for smooth rocks deposited by the Garonne River. Considered the best place in Bordeaux for producing elegant, powerful white wines, Graves has sandier soil than Médoc and a perfect microclimate for Sémillon, which prefers shallow soil with excellent drainage. Sémillon is typically blended with Sauvignon to create wines that are lively, round and powerful with floral and fruit aromas.
Graves de Vayres (Dry White)
Situated along the Dordogne river about 30 kilometers east of Bordeaux and named for its gravelly soil, this appellation produces white wines with impressive complexity, roundness and power. Blended with Sémillon and Sauvignon, sometimes with small proportions of Muscadelle, these exclusive Whites are grown in an area of gravelly soil surrounded by clay and limestone soil. The resulting wines are supple, fresh and rich with light color.
Pessac-Léognan (Dry White)
Considered the most excellent dry whites from Bordeaux, Pessac-Léognan wines have light, golden color that intensifies with age, rich diverse aromas, and flavors that are complex and intense, yet wonderfully fresh and fruity. Sauvignon dominates and must represent at least 25% of the blend. Sémillon is also often used to add complexity and power to these fine Whites that have surprising potential for aging. Just south of the city of Bordeaux, Pessac-Léognan is most likely the place where wine growing began in Bordeaux around 2,000 years ago, and it is now home to many Crus Classés. Vines are planted in vast clearings surrounded by pine forests that protect them from winds.
Sainte-Foy-Bordeaux (Dry White)
Although Sainte-Foy Bordeaux is most recognized for its semi-sweet white wines and powerful Reds, it is also home to a few, rare dry Whites. Aromatic with white flowers and citrus, they have a pleasant, silky, mineral taste. Clay and limestone soils of the area, about 60 kilometers east of Bordeaux, are ideal for growing Sauvignon, which dominates the blends that also may include Sémillon, Muscadelle and Sauvignon Gris.
Barsac
In the southern part of Bordeaux lies this area, separated from Sauternes by the Ciron, a tributary of the Garonne River. Famous for high-quality, white dessert wines, its flat land is rich in sandstone and limestone. Each morning a light mist coats the vines while the midday sun warms them providing the perfect conditions for the noble rot bacteria (Botrytis cinerea), which concentrates the grapes' sugars and creates the characteristic sweetness of the region's wines.
Bordeaux Haut-Benauge
At the heart of the Entre-Deux-Mers region, between the Garonne and Dordogne rivers, vines grow in a small valley with clay-limestone soil. Warm days and foggy nights create favorable conditions for noble rot (Botrytis cinerea), which breaks into grape skins, dehydrates the pulp and transforms them into a golden jam with rich sugar and aromas (a good thing for producing sweet wines). Bordeaux Haut-Benauge wines are sweet, harmonious, rich blends of Sauvignon, Sémillon and Muscadelle with a vast aromatic palate of citrus, yellow flowers and exotic fruit. They can be enjoyed young, but up to four years of aging allows them to develop more fully.
Bordeaux Supérieur (White)
Produced from older vines and aged between six and 18 months in tanks or barrels, Bordeaux Supérieur white wines are fruity, light and refreshing, medium-sweet wines. They may be produced anywhere in the Bordeaux region and vinification is carried out with botrytised grapes, which means the grapes are overly ripe as a result of noble rot (Botrytis cinerea), which breaks into grape skins, dehydrates the pulp and transforms them into a golden jam with rich sugar and aromas. Sémillon, Sauvignon and Muscadelle are the dominant grape varieties, but blends may also include small percentages of Ugni Blanc, Ondenc, Chenin, Mauzac and Merlot Blanc.
Cadillac
A relatively new AOC established in 1973, Cadillac vineyards have been respected throughout Bordeaux much longer than that. This beautiful territory occupies hillsides on the bank of the Garonne, where conditions are favorable for over ripening Sémillon grapes (a result of the desirable noble rot fungus, which breaks into grape skins, dehydrates the pulp and transforms them into a golden jam). The resulting dessert wines have highly concentrated sugars. Sauvignon and Muscadelle are also planted in smaller quantities. Cadillac wines are elegant, aromatic, full and unctuous, but never heavy.
Cérons
Many experts consider Cérons the best-kept secret among fine dessert wines. This little-known and small production zone yields wines that express the full potential of the terroir. Light, coarse sandy soil covering compacted limestone allows for a long ripening period for Sémillon with favorable conditions for noble rot (which breaks into grape skins, dehydrates the pulp and transforms them into a golden jam), resulting in highly concentrated sugars. Similar to Barsac, wines are sweet with notes of roasted and candied fruit, but with a livelier finish.
Côtes de Bordeaux-Saint-Macaire
These sweet, white wines are produced about 40 kilometers south of Bordeaux on steep hillsides, where the nearby Garonne river regulates temperature and brings humidity that helps to promote noble rot (which breaks into grape skins, dehydrates the pulp and transforms them into a golden jam) resulting in over ripe grapes with high sugar concentration. Soils are composed of clay and limestone or clay and sand for ideal drainage for Sémillon, which may also be blended with Muscadelle. The wines have delicate aromas with a rich, round palate, and they pair best with exotic or slightly spicy foods and strong cheeses, such as Roquefort or dry goat cheeses.
Francs Côtes de Bordeaux (Sweet White)
Consisting mainly of small, family-owned wineries, this AOC is the smallest in the Côtes de Bordeaux. Most noted for red wines, the appellation produces a few semi-sweet white wines that are round and balanced on the palate with aromas of honey and flowers. Sémillon dominates, imparting strength, finesse and opulence, while Sauvignon and Muscadelle bring aromatic characteristics to the wines. Vines are planted alongside pastures and forests and dig their roots deeply into sophisticated clay and limestone soils.
Graves de Vayres (Sweet White)
Situated along the Dordogne river about 30 kilometers east of Bordeaux and named for its gravelly soil, this appellation produces a few semi-sweet white wines with over ripe Sémillon, Sauvignon and Muscadelle. Grown in an area of gravelly soil, the resulting wines are fine, supple, harmonious and round–great companions for white meats or cheese, or as an apertif.
Graves Supérieures
These wines are the sweet variant of the Graves appellation and are produced in the same growing region. Gravel and sand with veins of clay and limestone provide ideal conditions for vines to draw nutrients from the depths of the soil. At night, the surface gravel releases heat stored during the day, which helps the grapes over ripen, resulting in high sugar concentration. Sémillon and Sauvignon are the most used grape varieties. The wines are dense and round with subtle aromas and a sweetness balanced by underlying acidity for a fresh finish.
Loupiac
Across the river from Sauternes at the meeting point of the Garonne and Ciron rivers, this small appellation is composed of hills with south and southwest exposures, guaranteeing the very best sunlight. As the cold Ciron meets the warmer Garonne, night mists occur, causing humidity that fosters the desirable noble rot (which breaks into grape skins, dehydrates the pulp and transforms them into a golden jam). This over ripening results in high sugar concentrations ideal for dessert wines. Loupiac wines are rich, ample and viscous with elegant structure and balancing acidity.
Premières Côtes de Bordeaux (Sweet White)
Across the river from Sauternes at the meeting point of the Garonne and Ciron rivers, this small appellation is composed of hills with south and southwest exposures, guaranteeing the very best sunlight. As the cold Ciron meets the warmer Garonne, night mists occur, causing humidity that fosters the desirable noble rot (which breaks into grape skins, dehydrates the pulp and transforms them into a golden jam). This over ripening results in high sugar concentrations ideal for dessert wines. Loupiac wines are rich, ample and viscous with elegant structure and balancing acidity.
Premières Côtes de Bordeaux (Sweet White)
This appellation mainly produces fruity red wines, but sweet white wines dominate the hotter southern portion of Premières Côtes de Bordeaux. Steep terrain, clay-limestone soil, sunny days and humid nights give grapes an intense, long ripening period during which primarily Sémillon and some Sauvignon grapes are happily subjected to noble rot (which breaks into grape skins, dehydrates the pulp and transforms them into a golden jam). Harvesting must be handled with extreme care because only grapes that have reached the ultimate over ripened state are picked from each bunch. The wines are elegant, corpulent and aromatic with balance and freshness.
Sainte-Croix-du-Mont
Opposite Sauternes, this appellation benefits from a microclimate that produces the desirable noble rot, which leads to over ripening and high sugar concentration in the grapes. Sainte-Croix-du-Mont is a magnificent village overlooking where the Garonne and Ciron rivers intersect. Clay and limestone soil covers steep hillsides with massive outcroppings of pure limestone prized for growing vines (not uncommon in the region, but usually found at greater depths). The primary grape is Sémillon with some Sauvignon. The wines have fruitiness, sweetness and elegance of great dessert wines, and are often described as lively, powerful and intense with a long finish.
Sainte-Foy-Bordeaux (Sweet White)
Though primarily a production area for red wines, this lesser-known territory produces sweet whites with beautiful, warm golden color. They are ample, suave and fresh with a remarkably long and aromatic finish. Sauvignon is used in nearly the same proportion as Sémillon, and blends may also include Muscadelle or Sauvignon Gris. Located in the eastern part of the region at the tip of the Gironde Estuary, this AOC is an alignment of hills with deep clay-limestone soils. Vines are planted on the upper reaches of hills and plateaus, and the river creates a humid, mild microclimate that favors noble rot, which leads to over ripening and high sugar concentration in the grapes.
Sauternes
Considered a sub-region of Graves, Sauternes is one of the most ancient vineyards of the Left Bank and is separated from the Barsac region by the Ciron, a tributary of the Garrone river. Grapes are overripened to produce the high sugar concentrations desireable for dessert wines. The wines are often golden in color, smooth, delicate and vary widely between each house due to the rich diversity in soil. Vineyards highest in elevation and farthest from the river have the best terroirs and produce the most Crus Classés, including the monumental Château Yquem.
Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux
This new AOC created in 1989 encompasses a territory that has long been producing powerful, fruity and flavorful wines. The hillsides of the Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux provide clay and limestone soil that produces concentrated, powerful red wines. At the base of the hills, the soil contains more silt, sand and stones, which contributes to smoother reds. Merlot heavily dominates this AOC, while Cabernet Franc represents about 20% of plantings.
