Bordeaux is the reference point for fine red wine, the benchmark so many other blends around the world are measured against. It sits on either side of the Gironde estuary in southwest France and makes everything from cellar-worthy classed growths to honest everyday reds, along with fresh dry whites and one of the greatest sweet wines on earth.
Left Bank and Right Bank, and why it matters
The estuary splits the region in two, and that divide tells you most of what you need to know. On the Left Bank, in the Médoc and Graves, deep gravel favours Cabernet Sauvignon. This is the home of Pauillac, Margaux, Saint-Julien and Saint-Estèphe, and of famous names like Mouton Rothschild and Montrose: structured reds with blackcurrant, cedar and a long life ahead of them. Over on the Right Bank, around Saint-Émilion and Pomerol, clay and limestone suit Merlot, giving rounder, plusher wines you can open a good deal sooner.
Dry whites and sweet Sauternes
There is far more here than tannic reds. Pessac-Léognan and Graves turn out serious dry whites from Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, taut in youth and ageless from the best estates. In Sauternes and Barsac, autumn mists bring the noble rot that shrivels the grapes and concentrates them into rich, honeyed dessert wines, with Château d'Yquem the benchmark. If you love the grapes themselves, follow them into our Cabernet Sauvignon range or explore the rest of France.
Bordeaux FAQ
What food pairs with red Bordeaux?
Lamb, roast beef, duck and hard cheeses are the classics. The tannin and acidity cut through rich, fatty dishes, which is why a Left Bank Cabernet loves a rare steak.
Should I drink Bordeaux now or cellar it?
Everyday Bordeaux and most Right Bank Merlot are lovely young. A classed-growth Médoc from a strong vintage can improve for twenty years or more, so it pays to buy a few and wait.
Is there good-value Bordeaux?
Plenty. Look to Bordeaux Supérieur, the Côtes de Bordeaux and the lesser-known Médoc estates for the classic style without the classed-growth price.