Buying Bordeaux Wine
The world of Bordeaux wines is rich and vast, offering a wide array of options to explore. To help you make the best selections, here are some essential factors to consider:
Grape Variety
Bordeaux wines feature a blend of different varieties. Reds include Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Merlot, and Malbec, while whites include Sauvignon Blanc, Muscadelle, and Sémillon. Each grape brings its own distinct olfactories and piquancy to the tasting experience.
Vintage Matters
It’s all about the vintage. Each year brings unique weather conditions that affect the grape harvest, consequently impacting the wine’s character. Bordeaux is celebrated for its exceptional vintages, which produce wines with remarkable aging potential. These years often result in wines of intense complexity and depth. On the other hand, some vintages are better suited for immediate enjoyment, offering fruit-forward, rich flavors.
Appellation Insights
Bordeaux wine regions, often referred to as “appellations,” represent distinct areas within the Bordeaux region, each with its unique traditions and styles. Here’s what you need to know:
- Left Bank: Home to famous wine-producing areas such as Pauillac, Margaux, and Saint-Estèphe, the Left Bank specializes in Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant blends. These wines offer bold and structured flavors.
- Right Bank: Featuring appellations like Saint-Émilion and Pomerol, the Right Bank leans toward Merlot-based blends. These wines are softer, with plum, red berry, and floral notes.
- Entre-Deux-Mers: This subregion is known for its dry white wines and is located between the Garonne and Dordogne rivers. The essence of this region is ideal for producing fresh, vibrant white Bordeaux wines.
How To Serve Bordeaux Wine
Serving Bordeaux wine is not just a matter of pouring it into a glass; it’s an art that enhances your overall wine-drinking experience. Whether you’re opening a bottle of young Bordeaux or an aged vintage, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Decanting: Decanting is a time-honored tradition. For young Bordeaux, decanting helps the wine breathe, releasing its aromas. Decanting at least an hour before serving is ideal, allowing the wine to open up and reveal its full potential.
- Temperature: Bordeaux wines are best enjoyed at specific temperatures. Generally, reds should be served slightly below room temperature, around 65°F. White Bordeaux, on the other hand, is best served slightly cooler, around 55°F.
Bordeaux wines are also incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide range of foods. For example, bold reds pair well with red meats and hearty dishes. White Bordeaux wines, with their vibrant acidity, complement seafood, poultry, and dishes with creamy sauces.
To preserve Bordeaux wine quality and aging potential, keep it in a cool, dark, and humid environment, ideally between 55 and 60°F.
When Will I Receive My Purchase?
We understand that buying Bordeaux wine online comes with excitement and anticipation. At Gordon’s Fine Wine, our commitment to exceptional service extends to our timely delivery process. Generally, delivery processing can take three to five days, while pick-up orders are typically ready in one or two days.
For your convenience, we offer local doorstep delivery, making it easy to enjoy your favorite Bordeaux wines from the comfort of your own home.
