Everything You Have To Know About Wine Tasting in Bordeaux

Bordeaux, the wine capital of France, is a place that oozes elegance and charm. With over 7,000 wineries, Bordeaux is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts. In this article, we will take you on a journey through the history of wine in Bordeaux, the winemaking process, and also discuss the best wineries to visit for your wine tasting in Bordeaux.

History of Wine in Bordeaux

Bordeaux has a long and illustrious history in winemaking. The first vines were planted in the region by the Romans over 2,000 years ago. However, it wasn’t until the 12th century that Bordeaux wine began to gain international recognition. The English, who were at war with the French, became enamored with Bordeaux wines and began importing them in large quantities.

The 18th century was a golden age for Bordeaux wines. The French aristocracy was heavily involved in winemaking, and the wines produced in Bordeaux were considered the finest in the world. However, the 19th century saw a decline in the quality of Bordeaux wines due to the phylloxera epidemic and also the world wars.

It wasn’t until the 1980s that Bordeaux wine began to regain its status as one of the world’s premier wines. Thanks to a renewed focus on quality and the introduction of new winemaking techniques, Bordeaux wines have once again become highly sought after by wine lovers around the globe.

Winemaking Process in Bordeaux

Bordeaux is known for producing red wines, and the winemaking process is a delicate balance of tradition and modern technology. The region is divided into several sub-regions, each with its own unique terroir, or soil composition. The most famous sub-regions are Medoc, Graves, and also Saint-Emilion.

The winemaking process begins with the harvest, which typically takes place in September. The grapes are carefully handpicked and sorted before being crushed. The juice is then fermented in oak barrels, which impart flavor and complexity to the wine.

After fermentation, the wine is aged in oak barrels for up to two years. This aging process allows the wine to develop its unique flavor profile and also its aroma. Once the wine has aged, it is bottled and labeled

Best Wineries to Visit in Bordeaux

There are over 7,000 wineries in Bordeaux, making it difficult to choose which ones to visit. Here are a few of the best wineries that you should add to your itinerary:

Chateau Margaux – This winery is one of the most famous in Bordeaux, known for producing some of the most expensive and sought-after wines in the world. The chateau offers tours and tastings, allowing visitors to sample some of their exceptional wines.

Chateau Haut-Brion – This winery is one of the oldest in Bordeaux, dating back to the 16th century. The wines produced here are considered some of the finest in the world and are highly sought after by collectors. The chateau offers tours and tastings by appointment only.

Chateau Palmer – This winery is known for producing wines that are a perfect balance of power and finesse. The chateau offers tours and tastings, allowing visitors to sample some of their exceptional wines.