Bordeaux Wine Description

Bordeaux wines are some of the most famous and sought-after in the world, produced in the Bordeaux region of southwestern France. The region is known for its high-quality blends, predominantly featuring Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc for reds, and Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon for whites. Bordeaux wines range from powerful, tannic reds to sweet, botrytized whites like Sauternes, as well as dry whites with a crisp, fresh profile. The wines are known for their aging potential, balance, and complexity.

Appearance:

• Color: Bordeaux reds typically range from deep ruby to garnet, often deepening with age. White Bordeaux wines are pale straw to golden.
• Opacity: Reds are usually medium to high in opacity, reflecting their depth and concentration, while whites are clear and bright.

Aroma:

• Primary Aromas: Red Bordeaux wines often exhibit aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, plum, and cherry. White Bordeaux wines display notes of citrus, green apple, and tropical fruits.
• Secondary Aromas: These wines can also have hints of cedar, tobacco, and earth, which develop from the oak aging process. Whites may have floral and herbal undertones.
• Tertiary Aromas: Aged Bordeaux wines may develop complex aromas such as dried fruit, leather, tobacco, truffle, and sometimes a smoky quality.

Flavor Profile:

• Fruit Flavors: Red Bordeaux wines are characterized by dark fruit flavors like blackcurrant, plum, and cherry. Whites are often more citrus-driven with hints of melon and green apple.
• Other Flavors: Notes of tobacco, cedar, and earth are common in reds, while whites may have flavors of herbs, honey, and minerals.
• Oak Influence: Significant in many Bordeaux wines, especially in reds, contributing flavors of vanilla, spice, and toast from oak aging.

Structure:

• Body: Medium to full-bodied for reds; medium-bodied for whites.
• Tannins: Medium to high in red wines, providing structure and aging potential.
• Acidity: Medium to high, contributing to the wine’s balance and longevity.
• Alcohol: Ranges from 12.5% to 15%.