Bordeaux

Bordeaux’s New Claret: A Climate-Driven Revival

Bordeaux’s New Claret: A Climate-Driven Revival

Bordeaux is rewriting its wine story. For centuries, the region defined itself by bold, oak-aged reds—now, it’s pivoting to a lighter, more approachable style with a name rooted in history: claret. This shift isn’t just a trend; it’s a survival strategy. As climate change reshapes vineyards and consumer tastes, Bordeaux’s winemakers are redefining what it means to be “claret,” blending tradition with necessity. The new classification, set to debut in 2’th vintage, marks a deliberate break from the heavy, tannic profiles that once dominated. These wines will be lighter, lower in alcohol, and designed to be enjoyed chilled—between 8 and…
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Sauvignon Blanc-Sémillon: A Richer Twist on a Classic White

Sauvignon Blanc-Sémillon: A Richer Twist on a Classic White

If you’re a Chardonnay devotee who’s ever craved something deeper than citrus and stone fruit, Sauvignon Blanc-Sémillon blends might just rewrite your wine playbook. This rare white wine defies expectations by marrying the zesty, herbal notes of Sauvignon Blanc with the buttery, honeyed richness of Sémillon—often aged in new oak. The result? A luscious, layered sip that’s anything but lightweight. In this video, we dive into how two regions—Bordeaux and Washington State—craft these blends into something extraordinary. Bordeaux’s Sauternes appellation is the gold standard for sweet white wines, where Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon are fermented in oak to create textures…
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Bordeaux Decoded: The Art of Blending Merlot and Cabernet

Bordeaux Decoded: The Art of Blending Merlot and Cabernet

Time to spill: Bordeaux isn’t just a wine—it’s a masterclass in balance. This week’s tasting challenge cracks open a bottle of Bordeaux Superieur from Entre-Deux-Mers, a subregion better known for white blends but now carving its niche in affordable reds. The key? A simple yet strategic blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, two grapes that speak volumes about the region’s identity. Bordeaux’s magic lies in its flexibility. While producers can use up to six grape varieties, this bottle sticks to the essentials: 65% Merlot for its velvety fruitiness and 35% Cabernet Sauvignon for structure. The result is a wine that…
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