LATITUDE
LONGITUDE
APPELATIONS
The Entre Deux Mers region, meaning "between two seas," is a remarkable wine region cradled between two rivers, the Garonne and Dordogne rivers. Within its boundaries lie eight distinct appellations, each contributing to Bordeaux's rich tapestry of wines and traditions.
At 7,000 hectares, Entre-Deux-Mers stands as Bordeaux's largest subregion. Its reputation rests primarily on exceptional white wines crafted from Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle. The region's sweet wines from Loupiac and Cadillac demonstrate its versatility, offering wine enthusiasts a comprehensive taste of Bordeaux's capabilities.
The region's viticultural legacy stretches back to Roman times, establishing it as one of Bordeaux's oldest wine territories. By the 18th century, its wines commanded respect alongside Bordeaux's finest. The mid-20th century brought a strategic shift toward red varieties, though recent years have seen a welcome resurgence of the region's distinguished white Bordeaux wines.
The region's strategic position between two major rivers creates an ideal viticultural setting. Its undulating landscape and river-influenced soils provide the foundation for wines of distinct character and quality.
The terrain rises from 10 to 100 meters, creating diverse microclimates that benefit viticulture. The maritime influence ensures moderate temperatures year-round, providing optimal conditions for grape maturation.
The terroir features a sophisticated blend of clay, sand, and gravel—alluvial deposits that offer ideal drainage while retaining essential moisture for vine health.
This balanced environment nurtures both white and red varieties. The region's characteristic diurnal temperature variation particularly suits the principal white varieties while also accommodating noble red grapes like Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Climate change presents real challenges for viticulture here. Producers are actively adapting their practices to maintain wine quality amid shifting weather patterns.
The region continues to evolve with market demands. A significant development allows red wines to carry the Entre-Deux-Mers designation from 2023, opening new possibilities for growth.
The region embraces innovation while honouring tradition. Producers in wine region are implementing sustainable practices and exploring new techniques to enhance wine quality, positioning Entre-Deux-Mers as a forward-thinking wine region that respects its heritage.
Vineyard Hectares
WINERIES
GROWING DEGREE DAYS
Between the Garonne and Dordogne rivers lies a landscape that captures the soul of French wine country. Entre-Deux-Mers unfolds like a living tapestry - hills dotted with ancient vines, medieval villages perched on ridges, and farmers tending fields their families have worked for generations.
The maritime influence of the Garonne and Dordogne rivers creates an exceptional viticultural environment in Entre-Deux-Mers. These waterways moderate temperature extremes, establishing optimal conditions for wine cultivation. Annual rainfall of 985 millimetres is distributed evenly throughout the year, providing consistent hydration for the region’s prestigious varieties. Discover how the climate of Entre-Deux-Mers creates optimal conditions for wine cultivation, inviting you to entre deux mers discover its unique charm and character.
September and October are the most engaging periods for experiencing Entre-Deux-Mers. During vendange, visitors can observe the precise art of harvest and witness traditional winemaking techniques in action. The autumn climate offers pleasant daytime temperatures and refreshing evenings, ideal for vineyard exploration and wine appreciation.
Spring months, particularly March through May, provide an alternative window for discovery. This season showcases the vitality of awakening vineyards, with emergent foliage and flowering vines creating an impressive display. Both seasons offer distinct opportunities to experience the region's viticultural heritage, each with its own atmospheric charm and cultural significance.
Entre-Deux-Mers' distinctive terroir emerges from its diverse soil composition, each type contributing to the region's viticultural excellence. Among the most common soils, you will find clay-limestone, gravelly, sandy, alluvial, and stony clay-limestone soils:
Entre-Deux-Mers showcases an impressive array of grape varieties, each contributing to its reputation for exceptional wines. Among the most common grapes used for wine production are Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Muscadelle, Ugni Blanc, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Entre-Deux-Mers presents a distinguished portfolio of wines that reflects its diverse terroir. From exceptional whites to elegant sweet wines and refined reds, the entre deux mers region demonstrates remarkable versatility.
In addition, this region is known for producing Fine de Bordeaux, a type of brandy which showcases fruity and floral notes complemented with hints of citrus or vanilla.
The region's distinctive terroir imparts notable freshness and balance to its wines, while the maritime influence ensures consistent ripening conditions.
Each appellation offers distinct wine experiences, from the sweet wine specialists of Cadillac to the diverse offerings of Entre-Deux-Mers AOC estates.
The region welcomes visitors with professional wine tasting and educational experiences, complemented by seasonal celebrations of local wine culture.
The wines demonstrate a particular affinity with regional cuisine. Fresh seafood complements the dry whites, while the sweet wines enhance traditional dishes like duck confit and foie gras.
For a full immersion into the local culture, stay at charming bed-and-breakfasts or visit the luxurious vineyard estates. Many offer on-site dining experiences where regional cuisine is perfectly paired with local wines, making your visit to Entre-Deux-Mers unforgettable.