Bordeaux Wine Type

Definition - What does Bordeaux Wine Type mean?

Bordeaux wine types refer to the various styles of wines produced in the Bordeaux region of France, primarily classified into red and white wines. Red Bordeaux, known for blends primarily of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, are famous for their depth and aging potential. White Bordeaux, typically made from Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle, vary from dry and crisp to sweet. This classification also includes rosé and lighter red wines known as claret. Each Bordeaux wine type is distinguished by its unique flavor profile, influenced by the region's diverse terroir and winemaking traditions.

WhineFrog explains Bordeaux Wine Type

Red Bordeaux wines are renowned for their depth, structure, and capacity to age gracefully. The Left Bank of Bordeaux, including the Médoc and Graves regions, is known for its Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blends, producing robust wines with pronounced tannins and longevity. In contrast, the Right Bank, particularly the areas of Saint-Émilion and Pomerol, favors Merlot and Cabernet Franc, yielding wines that are generally softer and more approachable in their youth. White Bordeaux wines range from the dry and crisp styles, often dominated by Sauvignon Blanc, to the sweet, honeyed wines of Sauternes and Barsac, where Sémillon takes the lead. These wines are celebrated for their aromatic complexity, freshness, and versatility in food pairing. In addition to red and white wines, Bordeaux also produces rosé and claret. Bordeaux rosé is typically made via short maceration of red grape skins, offering a light, refreshing style. Claret, a traditional English term for Bordeaux wine, now refers to a light red wine from the region, made to be consumed young.