Bordeaux’s most famous grape variety is cabernet sauvignon, but actually, merlot is much more planted. Merlot is even the most planted variety in the whole of France. Both these grapes are often partnered with cabernet franc, a grape that adds freshness to the blend.
Another three grapes are permitted in red Bordeaux wines: malbec, nowadays more famous in Argentina, petit verdot, which is getting more and more popular in the Médoc region, and carmenère. This last grape is almost totally gone from Bordeaux, only some 20 hectares remain, but, just as malbec, it has found a new home in South America, in Chile.
These grapes are now planted all over the world, but Bordeaux, with its vast vineyards and beautiful chateaux is the original home. Experience with us the grapes, prestigious wines, luxurious chateaux lunches and lovely people in magnificent Bordeaux.
Wine tour to Bordeaux, September 27 – October 1
In the autumn, we also offer a combined Bordeaux and Champagne wine tour. See more on this in a separate note.