While Bordeaux is home to some of the world's most famous brand names, what makes it a truly rare region is the sheer number of wineries making incredible wines. But the array of options—and an opaque classification system—can make it hard to understand what's inside a bottle, what it will taste like, and whether it's worth your money.
Whether you're new to wine or a seasoned enthusiast, this guide will help you navigate the diverse Bordeaux region and create unforgettable dining experiences. By the time you're done reading you'll know how to select the perfect Bordeaux wine and pair it like a somm.
Understanding Bordeaux Wines: A Comprehensive Overview
Bordeaux, nestled in southwestern France, stands as one of the world's most renowned wine regions. Its reputation is built on exceptional red blends, typically crafted from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc grapes. However, Bordeaux's viticultural prowess extends beyond reds – the region also produces outstanding white wines, usually blending Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon.
To truly appreciate Bordeaux wines, it's essential to understand the region's diverse terroir. Bordeaux is divided into several sub-regions, each imparting unique characteristics to its wines:
- Left Bank: This area is renowned for its Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant blends. The wines from this region often exhibit bold flavours and firm tannins, perfect for ageing.
- Main appellations: Médoc, Haut-Médoc, Pauillac, Saint-Estèphe, Saint-Julien, Margaux, Pessac-Léognan, Graves
- Famous châteaux: Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Latour, Château Margaux, Château Mouton Rothschild, Château Haut-Brion
- Right Bank: Here, Merlot takes centre stage. The wines tend to be softer and more approachable in their youth, with lush fruit flavours.
- Main appellations: Saint-Émilion, Pomerol, Fronsac
- Famous châteaux: Château Petrus, Château Cheval Blanc, Château Ausone
- Entre-Deux-Mers: Situated between the Garonne and Dordogne rivers, this region is known for producing crisp, refreshing white wines.
- Main appellations: Entre-Deux-Mers, Cadillac, Loupiac
- Sauternes and Barsac: Home to some of the world's most prized sweet wines, produced from botrytis-affected grapes.
- Famous châteaux: Château d'Yquem, Château Climens
How to Identify Which Region a Bordeaux Wine is From
Given how much the regions differ in their traditional grapes and blends, knowing a Bordeaux wine's origin can significantly help with food pairing. Unfortunately, Bordeaux does not make it as easy as simply printing that information on the label - the information is there, but you need to know how to decipher the information on a Bordeaux wine label to find it:
- Appellation: The label will prominently display the wine's appellation, which directly indicates its region. For example, "Pauillac" signifies a Left Bank wine, while "Saint-Émilion" indicates a Right Bank origin (you can refer back to the list in the section above for most of the main appellations to be on the lookout for).
- Château name: Many prestigious Bordeaux wines are named after their château. Recognizing (or Googling) the château names can quickly tell you the wine's region.
- Grape varieties: While not always listed, the dominant grape variety can be a clue. Left Bank wines are typically Cabernet Sauvignon-heavy, while Right Bank wines lead with Merlot.
Remember, building this knowledge takes time. Don't hesitate to ask the Raravina Wine Hotline or Vina if you need help identifying a wine's region!
And if you're curious what terms like Grand Cru and Premier Cru mean on the bottle, check out our article breaking it all down, What's In a Cru.
Picking Your Bordeaux: Tips for Success
Selecting a Bordeaux wine can seem daunting given the vast array of choices, but with a few key considerations, you'll be well-equipped to make an informed decision:
- Know your price range: Bordeaux wines span a wide spectrum of price points. While some bottles command astronomical prices, there are plenty of excellent options at more modest price levels. Don't be afraid to explore lesser-known appellations for great value.
- Check the vintage: While Bordeaux consistently produces quality wines, some years are particularly exceptional. You can always ask Vina whether a particular year was good in Bordeaux (or most other major wine regions, for that matter).
- Read the label: As we've said above, Bordeaux wine labels contain a wealth of information. Look for the appellation and classification (e.g., Grand Cru Classé) to get an idea of the wine's style and quality. The alcohol content can also give you a clue about the wine's body and intensity.
- Ask for recommendations: You can always reach out to the Raravina Wine Hotline for recommendations!
- Consider ageing potential: Some Bordeaux wines are meant to be enjoyed young, while others benefit from years of ageing. If you're planning to cellar the wine, ensure you choose a bottle with good ageing potential.
General Tips for Bordeaux Wine and Food Pairings
- Match intensity: Pair bold wines with rich foods, and lighter wines with delicate dishes. This ensures neither the food nor the wine overpowers the other.
- Consider sauce and preparation: The way a dish is prepared can significantly influence the best wine pairing. For example, a grilled steak might call for a different wine than a steak with a creamy mushroom sauce.
- Don't forget vegetables: Bordeaux wines can pair beautifully with vegetarian dishes. Think roasted root vegetables, mushroom tarts, or eggplant parmesan. The earthy flavours in these dishes often complement the wines wonderfully.
- Temperature matters: Serve red Bordeaux slightly below room temperature (around 60-65°F or 15-18°C) and white Bordeaux chilled (around 45-50°F or 7-10°C). Proper serving temperature can significantly enhance the wine's flavours and aromas.
- Experiment: The world of wine pairing is full of surprises. Don't be afraid to try unexpected combinations. You might discover a pairing that becomes your new favourite.
- Consider the company: Sometimes, the best pairing is the one that your guests will enjoy most. If you're hosting, take into account your guests' preferences when selecting wines.
Bordeaux Wine and Food Pairings: A Regional Guide
Now, let's embark on a gastronomic journey through Bordeaux, exploring fantastic wine and food pairings based on the different regions. Remember, while these suggestions can serve as a helpful guide, the most important rule in wine pairing is to trust your palate and enjoy what you like.
Left Bank Bordeaux
Left Bank wines, with their Cabernet Sauvignon dominance, are often characterised by bold flavours, firm tannins, and notes of black currant, cedar, and tobacco. These robust wines pair wonderfully with:
- Grilled or roasted red meats (ribeye steak, lamb chops)
- Game meats (venison, wild boar)
- Hard, aged cheeses (Comté, aged Cheddar, Parmesan)
- Rich, hearty stews
- Dishes featuring truffles
Pairing spotlight: A classic left bank paired with a perfectly grilled ribeye steak can be a transformative experience. The wine's firm tannins cut through the meat's richness, while its complex flavours complement the steak's char and juiciness.
Right Bank Bordeaux
Right Bank wines, typically Merlot-dominant, tend to be softer and fruitier, with notes of plum, cherry, and chocolate. These approachable wines are great companions for:
- Roasted poultry (duck breast, roast chicken)
- Pork dishes (tenderloin, chops)
- Mushroom-based recipes (risotto, pasta)
- Semi-soft cheeses (Brie, Camembert)
- Dishes with tomato-based sauces
Fun pairing: Try a Saint-Émilion, like Château Cheval Blanc, with a mushroom and truffle risotto. The wine's earthy notes beautifully complement the umami-rich dish, creating a harmonious flavour profile.
Entre-Deux-Mers
The crisp, refreshing white wines from this region offer a delightful contrast to rich foods and pair perfectly with:
- Seafood (oysters, grilled fish, shellfish)
- Light salads with vinaigrette dressing
- Goat cheese
- Asparagus dishes
- Light pasta with cream sauce
Unexpected pairing: These vibrant whites can be a surprising and delightful match for sushi and sashimi. The wine's acidity complements the fish's richness, while its subtle flavors don't overpower the delicate seafood.
Graves
With both red and white wines, Graves offers versatile pairing options:
For reds:
- Grilled vegetables (eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers)
- Roasted beef or lamb
- Hearty stews
- Wild mushroom dishes
For whites:
- Roasted chicken with herbs
- Creamy pasta dishes
- Soft cheeses
- Grilled fish with lemon butter sauce
Chef's choice: A white Graves paired with butter-poached lobster creates a luxurious combination. The wine's subtle oak notes complement the lobster's sweetness, while its acidity cuts through the rich butter sauce.
Sauternes and Barsac
These lusciously sweet wines offer unique pairing opportunities:
- Foie gras (a classic Bordeaux pairing)
- Blue cheeses (Roquefort, Stilton)
- Fruit-based desserts (apple tart, poached pears)
- Crème brûlée
- Aged hard cheeses
Adventurous pairing: While traditionally served with dessert, try a Sauternes with spicy Asian cuisine. The wine's sweetness balances the heat, creating an intriguing flavor contrast.
Conclusion: Drink, Taste, and Experiment
Exploring Bordeaux wines and food pairings is an exciting journey filled with endless possibilities. From the bold Cabernet blends of the Médoc to the sweet elixirs of Sauternes, Bordeaux offers a wine for every palate and occasion.
Remember, while guidelines can be helpful, there's no strict rulebook when it comes to wine pairing. Trust your palate, be adventurous, and most importantly, enjoy the process of discovery. Each bottle of Bordeaux tells a unique story of its terroir, the winemaker's craft, and the vintage conditions. By pairing these wines thoughtfully with food, you're not just creating a meal – you're crafting an experience.
Here's to your Bordeaux adventure – may it be filled with delightful discoveries and memorable meals. And until next time, stay nosey.
