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BORDEAUX’S GARONNE AND DORDOGNE RIVERS GIRONDE ESTUARY
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BORDEAUX’S GARONNE AND DORDOGNE RIVERS AND GIRONDE ESTUARY
In the corner of southwestern France, the Garonne and Dordogne rivers merge together to form the Gironde Estuary that naturally divides the famous Bordeaux region into the Left and Right banks. One of the largest controlled wine regions in France, Bordeaux is made up of several sub-regions, each with its own strictly governed appellation, unique climate and terroir. Unlike most wines around the world, the quality of Bordeaux wine is determined by these factors rather than the grape varietal. Bordeaux is acclaimed for its legendary red blends, though white blends from this region also make a big impression. This “art of blending”—a centuries-old tradition that has been passed down and perfected by generations of vintners— sets Bordeaux apart from many other winegrowing regions of the world, where only one or two varieties fare well in the soils and general climate. The Left and Right banks of the river have different soil types that bring these exceptional blends to life.
tasting notes
THE LEFT BANK: SAUTERNES AND MÉDOC The flatter, gravelly lands of the Left Bank embrace the heat of the sun south of the Gironde, giving life to many rich red and sweet white blends like those of the Médoc and Sauternes regions.
THE RIGHT BANK: SAINT-ÉMILION The limestone and clay soils of the Right Bank are perfect for Merlot, the most popular grape used as a base for blends in Bordeaux. Prestigious appellations like Bourg and Saint-Émilion produce some of the best Merlot-based blends that are combined with Cabernet and other grapes.
Bordeaux’s perfectly carved countryside and historic landmarks will take your breath away.
