Unveiling the Rich History and Sophistication of Bordeaux
Bordeaux boasts a prestigious winemaking legacy, with roots that extend far beyond Roman times. This region has consistently captivated consumers with its exceptional wines, and its fame skyrocketed after the marriage of King Henry II of England to Eleanor of Aquitaine. The British royal family's fervent love for Bordeaux wines fueled immense demand, which enterprising Dutch merchants struggled to meet with their biannual shipments to the UK. The access of the Gironde Estuary and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean provided vital water waterways, water sources and a moderating influence on the climate. This maritime influence fostered conditions perfect for grape growing.
In the 17th century, a pivotal shift occurred. The Dutch, seeking to streamline wine transportation and establish new routes, ingeniously drained marshes, uncovering fertile land. This land, remarkably rich in gravel soils, marked the birth of the famed Left Bank. This created the Right and Left Banks of Bordeaux. The Right Bank sits northeast of the Dordogne River, which separates it from the Left Bank. It is known for primarily Merlot, often blended with Cabernet Franc, and sometimes with Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. The vines are grown in clay, limestone and gravel soils which Merlot thrives in. More on Merlot and the Right Bank in a future post.
The Left Bank (Rive Gauche) is the undisputed kingdom of Cabernet Sauvignon, a grape that thrives in these specific conditions. Cabernet Sauvignon, a natural offspring of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, is characterized by small, thick-skinned berries susceptible to fungal diseases. Successful ripening hinges on ample warmth, sunshine, and, crucially, well-drained soils. The gravel soils of the Left Bank deliver on all these counts, providing drainage, retaining heat, and reflecting sunlight onto the vines, creating ideal conditions for this noble grape to reach its full potential.
Left Bank wines, typically high in tannins and acidity, are known for their intense black fruit flavors (blackberry, blackcurrant, black cherry), along with notes of cedar, cigar box, graphite, and mint. These wines are often described as having a strong "sense of place," exhibiting a linear structure on the palate with a clear direction and purpose. They possess remarkable aging potential and benefit greatly from oak aging, which softens tannins and anthocyanins.
In 1855, at the World's Fair in Paris, Napoleon III sought to showcase the exceptional quality of Bordeaux wines. To educate consumers and promote these wines, a classification system was established. This system, encompassing five tiers or "growths" for the Médoc and Graves appellations, classified chateaux (estates) themselves, not individual wines. Remarkably, this system persists today, with only one modification made in 1973. The enduring relevance of this classification system over 170 years is a testament to the enduring quality of Bordeaux wines.
Bordeaux's business structure also reflects a long-standing tradition dating back to the 16th century. As demand surged, winemakers found themselves increasingly occupied with the production side, distancing themselves from the business aspects. They entrusted sales and distribution to brokers, allowing them to focus solely on crafting exceptional wines. Merchants, also known as négociants, handled logistics and transportation, ensuring that these prized wines reached discerning consumers worldwide. Notably, chateaux traditionally did not have direct contact with their customers.
Following the classified growths is a category called Cru Bourgeois, where individual wines are rigorously tested for quality standards on an annual basis. This stands in contrast to the 1855 Classification, which remains static. We then move to broader area designations: AOC Bordeaux Supérieur and the overarching AOP Bordeaux.
From the ingenious innovations of the Dutch to the enduring classification system, Bordeaux's story is intertwined with its unwavering dedication to quality. Understanding this rich heritage allows us to appreciate the exceptional character and enduring appeal of these remarkable wines. To be continued to the Right Bank (Rive Droite)
Photo courtesy of La Tonnellerie Nadalié
