France, Bordeaux
Red Bordeaux
Arguably the finest expression of the Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grape varieties, red Bordeaux or "Claret" has long associations with the English "palate" that date back to Eleanor of Aquitaine. A large wine-producing region that produces many styles from light fruity glugging reds to some of the most highly valued wines in the world.
Red Bordeaux comes in two quite different styles conveniently separated by the Gironde River - the deep, intense Cabernet dominated wines of the Médoc - or Left Bank - and the softer, earlier maturing Merlot dominated wines of St.-Emilion and Pomerol- or Right Bank. Whichever style you chose Claret does benefit from some bottle ageing, with lesser wines drinking usually within 3-4 years of a moderate vintage.
Whichever style you chose Claret does benefit from some bottle ageing, with lesser wines drinking usually within 3-4 years of a moderate vintage.
White Bordeaux
The white wines of Bordeaux have suffered an identity crisis for some time. Until recently this region was only recognised for the slightly tired Sauvignon Blanc from the Graves region. But new wine making techniques, with good use of barrel fermentation and ageing in new oak barrels is producing exciting wines that, in terms of complexity, can compete with the fine white wines of Burgundy.
The blend of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc grapes used in the region give a delicious combination of rich melony fruit and grassy, green freshness. These crisp white wines make a great complement to seafood, fish, white meats and even asparagus.
Sweet White Bordeaux
Bordeaux is widely acclaimed as home to the world's finest sweet wines, Sauternes and Barsac, both located in the South of Bordeaux. What makes these wines different from many other sweet wines is their extraordinary complexity that comes quite literally from 'noble rot', or Botrytis Cinerea, a greyish fungal growth. From these grey, fungus ridden berries emerge the most sumptuous of wines, golden in colour, rich and silky in texture, with intense flavours and aromas of orange blossom, peaches, pineapples, honey and spice that defy the senses.
The classic food combination for Sauternes is Rochefort. The saltiness of the cheese and the luscious sweetness of the wine make a perfect match. Alternatively, experience another marriage made in heaven, Sauternes and foie gras.
