Bordeaux

• Merlot: plush and approachable, with ripe plum, berry, and gentle tannins; dominant in Right Bank blends.
• Cabernet Sauvignon: structured and age-worthy, offering blackcurrant, cedar, and graphite notes; the backbone of Left Bank wines.
• Cabernet Franc: adds floral lift and finesse, with red fruit and spice, especially expressive on limestone soils.
• Petit Verdot, Malbec, and Carménère: minor yet distinctive, contributing color, spice, and complexity to select blends.
• Sauvignon Blanc: crisp, lively, and aromatic, with citrus, green apple, and grassy nuances; often blended for freshness.
• Sémillon: rounded and textured, lending honeyed richness and aging potential to both dry and sweet styles.
• Muscadelle: delicate and floral, used in small amounts to enhance aromatic complexity in blends.
• Sweet Bordeaux (Sauternes, Barsac): luscious and golden, featuring botrytized Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc, with notes of apricot, honey, and marmalade.
• Rosé, Clairet, and Crémant: fresh, fruit-forward, and versatile, adding diversity to Bordeaux’s celebrated range.

The region's proximity to large bodies of water imparts a mild climate, with water moderating temperature fluctuations. This results in ample sunshine and cool nights, allowing grapes to ripen gradually, preserving their natural acidity and enhancing flavor profiles. Such conditions are ideal for cultivating a diverse array of grape varieties, each expressing the area's distinct character. The soils, a harmonious blend of gravel, clay, and limestone, offer excellent drainage and contribute to the wines' mineral complexity. This soil composition imparts a unique depth to the wines, with each grape variety echoing the terroir's signature minerality. Together, the climate and soil create an environment where the region's wines can develop their distinctive and celebrated qualities.

In the heart of Bordeaux, renowned for its legendary châteaux, several estates stand out for their commitment to tradition and excellence, offering a glimpse into the region's rich winemaking heritage.

• Château Lafite Rothschild: Based in Pauillac, this 1st Growth estate is celebrated for its Cabernet-driven wines, known for their grace and longevity.
• Château Margaux: Located in Margaux, this 1st Growth property produces blends that are distinguished by floral notes and a silky texture.
• Château Latour: Also in Pauillac, this 1st Growth estate crafts wines that are dense, structured, and renowned for their ability to age gracefully.
• Château Mouton Rothschild: Another Pauillac 1st Growth, known for its luxurious and artistic expressions rich in Cabernet Sauvignon.
• Château Haut-Brion: Situated in Pessac-Léognan, this 1st Growth estate is famed for its earthy Merlot-led reds and exceptional dry whites.
• Château Pétrus: Located in Pomerol, this estate focuses on pure Merlot, producing rich and plush wines that have become iconic.
• Château Cheval Blanc: In Saint-Émilion, this estate offers a refined blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, known for its balance and aromatic profile.
• Château Ausone: Also in Saint-Émilion, this estate is admired for its chalky elegance and outstanding aging potential.
• Château d’Yquem: In Sauternes, this Premier Cru Supérieur is the benchmark for sweet wines, offering unparalleled richness and complexity.
• Château Guiraud: Another Sauternes estate, notable for its lively and organic wines with a distinct botrytis character.
• Château Pontet-Canet: Located in Pauillac, this estate is recognized for its biodynamic practices and expressive, dense reds.
• Château Palmer: Based in Margaux, this estate is a biodynamic leader, known for its rich Merlot blends and silky texture.

Bordeaux is at the forefront of sustainable winemaking, with over 75% of its vineyards following certified environmental practices such as HVE, organic, and biodynamic methods. This dedication to sustainability is evident in the region's commitment to organic farming, with around a quarter of the vineyards embracing these practices. The use of techniques like cover cropping, planting hedgerows, and mechanical weeding helps maintain biodiversity and soil health. The "Cultivons Demain" program by CIVB further supports these efforts by encouraging community involvement and aiming to reduce carbon footprints. Remarkably, Bordeaux has cut its carbon emissions by 39% from 2007 to 2022, showcasing its dedication to eco-friendly innovation. The region is also adapting to climate change by experimenting with heat- and disease-resistant grape varieties like Marselan and Touriga Nacional, ensuring the resilience of Bordeaux wines in the face of environmental challenges. Sustainable practices are ingrained in the region's culture, with initiatives like using lightweight bottles, harnessing solar energy, and driving electric vehicles. Efficient water use is also a priority, reflecting Bordeaux's holistic approach to sustainability. This commitment not only protects the environment but also ensures the continued production of high-quality wines that reflect the region's unique terroir.

Bordeaux is a premier destination for wine tourism, offering an immersive experience in one of the world's most celebrated wine regions. Visitors can explore a variety of wine routes, including Médoc, Graves, and Sauternes, each showcasing the area's unique terroir and winemaking excellence. The region is renowned for its First Growth châteaux and family-owned wineries, where guests can engage in tastings and blending workshops. The UNESCO-listed town of Saint-Émilion adds a historic backdrop, while the La Cité du Vin museum in Bordeaux city offers a comprehensive look at global wine culture. The diverse activities available in Bordeaux cater to different interests, from vineyard bike rides and river cruises to participating in harvest events. Culinary experiences abound, with options ranging from Michelin-starred dining to traditional pairings like duck with Saint-Émilion wine. Accommodations are equally varied, with choices such as boutique wine hotels and estate lodgings. The Bordeaux Wine School offers educational opportunities, and events like Bordeaux Fête le Vin and the Médoc Marathon deepen the connection with the local wine culture. This blend of wine, culture, and hospitality ensures a world-class wine tourism experience.