Bordeaux Wine Region Guide
Discover Bordeaux, the world's most prestigious wine region. Learn about its famous appellations, legendary chateaux, and iconic red blends of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
Key Grapes
Climate
Maritime climate with mild winters and warm summers, influenced by the Atlantic Ocean and Gironde estuary
Notable Wines
- Chateau Margaux
- Chateau Lafite Rothschild
- Petrus
- Chateau Latour
Highlights
- Home to iconic Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blends
- Five main appellations: Medoc, Saint-Emilion, Pomerol, Graves, and Sauternes
- Over 7,000 wine producers and 60 appellations
- Classification system dating back to 1855
The Heart of Fine Wine
Bordeaux stands as the undisputed capital of fine wine, a region that has shaped global wine culture for centuries. Located in southwestern France along the Garonne and Dordogne rivers, Bordeaux produces wines that set the standard for quality worldwide.
Understanding Bordeaux Appellations
The region is divided into two main banks:
Left Bank
The Left Bank, dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, includes prestigious appellations like Medoc, Pauillac, Saint-Julien, and Margaux. These wines are known for their structure, power, and remarkable aging potential.
Right Bank
The Right Bank favors Merlot, with Saint-Emilion and Pomerol producing softer, more approachable wines with plush fruit character.
The 1855 Classification
Bordeaux’s famous classification system, established for the Paris Exhibition of 1855, ranks the top estates (chateaux) into five growths (crus). This historic system continues to influence wine prices and prestige today.
Why Bordeaux Matters for Wine Lovers
Understanding Bordeaux provides a foundation for appreciating wine worldwide. The blending philosophy, vineyard classification, and winemaking techniques developed here have influenced regions from Napa Valley to Australia.
Explore Bordeaux with Sommo
Use the Sommo app to scan Bordeaux wines and instantly learn about the chateau, vintage, and appellation. Build your knowledge of this essential wine region one bottle at a time.
