LATITUDE
LONGITUDE
The Bordeaux AOC is a key French wine appellation for the Bordeaux wine region. In 2023, it produced 384 million litres of wine - a significant increase from 2021's 377 million. Most of it (81%) is red wine, with 11% dry white, 4% rosé, 3% sparkling, and 1% sweet white. Additionally, both the Bordeaux AOC and Bordeaux Supérieur AOC account for 55% of the Bordeaux wines consumed worldwide.
Bordeaux AOC serves as your gateway to the Bordeaux wine region. This expansive area is known for producing a diverse range of wines, from everyday favourites to exquisites. While its red wines have garnered much acclaim, exceptional white and sparkling wines are also available. The region caters to both novice wine lovers and seasoned connoisseurs.
Wine production in this region dates back to Roman times in the 1st century. In 1855, a system called Grand Cru Classé was introduced to rank wines based on their quality and price, a practice that continues to this day. This initiative contributed to Bordeaux's reputation as a hallmark of fine wine.
The area lies adjacent to the Atlantic Ocean and is divided by the Gironde River, marking the famous Left Bank and Right Bank. This division contributes to a variety of wine styles. Local regulations allow winemakers to blend grapes freely, highlighting the unique characteristics of their terroir.
The vines reach approximately 60 meters above sea level. The climate is ideal, with mild winters, warm summers, and adequate rainfall, which promote healthy grape growth.
The soil mix includes clay, limestone, gravel, and sand. Each type helps different grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon loves gravel, while Merlot grows best in clay.
The ocean keeps temperatures steady, which helps both red and white grapes grow well. Merlot grows well everywhere, while Cabernet Sauvignon prefers gravelly locations.
Climate change and diseases like downy mildew can negatively impact grape production, leading to reduced yields or diminished quality.
While facing tough competition and changing tastes, Bordeaux continues to find new ways to make and sell wine.
An increasing number of vineyards are embracing natural methods and exploring innovative wine-making techniques. They are addressing climate challenges while ensuring their wines retain uniqueness. This demonstrates how Bordeaux stays relevant while honouring its heritage.
Vineyard Hectares
WINERIES
GROWING DEGREE DAYS
Three major rivers—the Gironde, Garonne, and Dordogne—traverse this wine region, establishing perfect conditions for grape cultivation. The maritime climate maintains temperature balance, while the rivers regulate weather and supply moisture. The variety of soil types—gravel, clay, and limestone—contributes to the distinctive character of each wine.
Situated on the 45th parallel, this wine region benefits from a maritime climate shaped by the Atlantic Ocean and the Gironde estuary. The average temperature is ideal, with mild winters and warm summers, approximately 13°C annually, and summer highs ranging from 27°C to 35°C. Cool nights help retain grape acidity, contributing to well-balanced wines.
Rainfall averages 100 mm during winter, tapering off to 47 mm in July. This balance of rain and sunshine creates perfect growing conditions. However, the maritime climate also introduces high humidity levels that pose a risk of downy mildew, necessitating meticulous vineyard management.
Spring frosts threaten young buds, but overall, this climate offers excellent conditions for extended growing seasons that develop the complex flavours for which Bordeaux is famous.
The autumn months of September and October provide an optimal experience. Delight in harvest activities, wine festivals, and fresh wine tasting against a backdrop of fall colours. For those who prefer warmer weather, July and August are also great options, albeit with larger crowds. Nonetheless, every season displays Bordeaux's rich wine heritage, stunning landscapes, and time-honoured wine traditions.
These premier wines showcase their unique terroir, crafting a distinct identity through traditional methods and modern expertise.
These wines reflect their birthplace, where different soils and weather patterns mix with centuries of wine-making knowledge to create unique flavours that you can taste in every glass.
To earn the Bordeaux name, wines must follow strict rules: vineyards can't make more than 55 hectoliters per hectare, alcohol needs to stay between 10-13%, and dry whites must keep their sugar low (under 4g/L), while grapes must come from designated Bordeaux vineyards.
Each area offers something special: Médoc's grand estates, Saint-Émilion's historic charm, Pomerol's family wineries, and Graves and Sauternes' diverse styles.
Join harvest celebrations, explore historic cellars and Bordeaux wine trails or learn about the winemaking processes of the best Bordeaux wineries- perfect for both beginners and enthusiasts.
Local food and wines complement each other beautifully: red wines go well with coq au vin and duck, white wines suit seafood, while sweet wines elevate local cheese.
Experience vineyard life by staying in châteaux, vineyard bed and breakfasts, or wine resorts, where you can learn directly from local winemakers.
Bordeaux and Bordeaux Supérieur AOC both produce exceptional wines using various grape types, including Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle. Each of these varieties plays a crucial role in defining the character of Bordeaux's wine, with their individual traits influenced by specific growing environments and cultivation practices.
These premier wines showcase their unique terroir, crafting a distinct identity through traditional methods and modern expertise.
These wines reflect their birthplace, where different soils and weather patterns mix with centuries of wine-making knowledge to create unique flavours that you can taste in every glass.
To earn the Bordeaux name, wines must follow strict rules: vineyards can't make more than 55 hectoliters per hectare, alcohol needs to stay between 10-13%, and dry whites must keep their sugar low (under 4g/L), while grapes must come from designated Bordeaux vineyards.
Each area offers something special: Médoc's grand estates, Saint-Émilion's historic charm, Pomerol's family wineries, and Graves and Sauternes' diverse styles.
Join harvest celebrations, explore historic cellars and Bordeaux wine trails or learn about the winemaking processes of the best Bordeaux wineries- perfect for both beginners and enthusiasts.
Local food and wines complement each other beautifully: red wines go well with coq au vin and duck, white wines suit seafood, while sweet wines elevate local cheese.
Experience vineyard life by staying in châteaux, vineyard bed and breakfasts, or wine resorts, where you can learn directly from local winemakers.
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