Bordeaux: It’s Not All About the Reds

Bordeaux is a region which has evolved over the years and may just surprise you. A new generation of winemakers are paving the way in refreshing the region’s approach to winemaking, putting increased levels of focus on sustainability and sustainable winemaking practices. In fact, as of 2020, more than 75% of the region’s vineyards were certified with an environmental approach, with a goal of reaching 100% by 2030.

Currently, almost 20,000 hectares of land in the Bordeaux region are either certified organic or in conversion to organic. There are also 732 certified biodynamic estates across 1,400 hectares. These impressive numbers really highlight just how hard winemakers are working in Bordeaux to become more sustainable.

This is a long term commitment made by the region and despite it being a traditional winemaking region with a rich viticultural history, producers are certainly adapting and innovating in order to create a sustainable future.

Of course, it’s not just the approach to winemaking that’s changing in Bordeaux, but also the style of wines produced here is ever evolving. Bordeaux are producing some exceptional whites, rosés and Crémant which are deliciously dry and refreshing.

When it comes to white wines from this corner of France, they can often be overlooked. However, up until 1970 Bordeaux actually produced a greater volume of white wine than red, meaning winemakers here certainly know a thing or two beyond the Bordeaux blends that the region is most famous for. Nowadays only 9% of wine produced here is white, however this still equates to around 59 million bottles a year meaning there is still plenty to choose from.

Dry whites here are produced from three main grape varieties, these being Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle. However the appellation in which these whites come from and the production method used is what really affects the style of wine produced.

If you are a fan of lighter and fresher whites then these can be found typically from Bordeaux AOC, Entre-Deux-Mers and Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux AOC. The latter two are regions found on the Right Bank where grapes, particularly Sauvignon Blanc, thrive in the gravel soils. The fruits here remain small and concentrated, creating light and dry whites with plenty of fruit aromas. These lively wines give you a taste of the warm coastal climate that Bordeaux enjoys and are a match made in heaven with light summery dishes from grilled fish to fresh salads

For more structured and generous whites with a little more body, opt for those from the Left Bank, particularly Pessac-Leognan and Graves, where Semillon is more prominent. These wines have typically undergone some battonage and a little ageing in the bottle giving the wine a slightly richer feel and creamier texture, yet equally as dry. Expect notes of baked apple with a zesty, citrus undertone perfect for summer.

Spring is the ultimate time of year to crack open the rosé and with Bordeaux producing high quality, affordable rosé, it’s certainly somewhere you need to turn your attention to if you’re a fan of the pretty pink vinos!

Just 4% of wine produced in this region is rosé meaning it is under the radar for most people. This has kept prices low so you can get your hands on rosé here which rivals some of the best in the world, at extremely affordable prices.

Any of the permitted red grape varieties in the region can be used to produce rosé, with the most common being Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. These wines are delicately pale in colour, often bursting with bright red berry notes and slight floral aromas of summer blossom. On the palate, you will discover a distinct freshness thanks to the coastal influence from the Atlantic.

These wines are extremely versatile and food friendly. In fact, it’s hard to go wrong when pairing these wines with food – whether it’s a barbecue, some Spanish style tapas or even pizza, guests will be left suitably impressed!

And lets not forget to mention the wonderful sparkling wines this region has to offer. The Crémant de Bordeaux appellation is one of the newest in the region, although white and rosé sparkling wines have been produced here for centuries gone by.

Crafted using the same method as they use in Champagne, these Bordeaux sparkling wines are produced exclusively from handpicked grapes. Under the rules of the appellation, these wines must then age for a minimum of 9 months in contact with lees (the dead yeast cells produced from fermentation), which adds to the wine’s complexity.

The great thing about Crémant de Bordeaux is all of the permitted grape varieties in the region can be used, both red and white, meaning there is heaps of variety and a fizz to suit all tastes! One thing’s for sure, the delicate bubbles created make for an extremely elegant wine which is complex, crisp and perfect for those summer celebrations – without the hefty price tag associated with some other famous French sparklings!

These sparkling wines can even be used to bring out your inner mixologist and combined with juice or spirits to create summer spritzer-style cocktails. Pair with delicate dishes this summer such as fresh salads or mild seafood dishes and you’ll be on to a winner.

With so much diversity, Bordeaux really does produce some wonderfully intriguing dry whites, rosés and Crémants which are sure to bring smiles all round. So, next time you are lazing in the summer sun or perhaps preparing for a garden get-together or picnic in the park, make sure you reach for a bottle of light and refreshing Bordeaux vino.

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