Bordeaux Blend Red Description
The Bordeaux Red Blend is a versatile and internationally recognized wine varietal that has gained popularity among wine enthusiasts worldwide. Originating from the famous Bordeaux region in France, this blend encompasses a combination of grape varieties commonly used in Bordeaux’s red wines. Although the term “Bordeaux Blend” is not an official or legal designation, it serves as a useful concept to discuss wines made in a similar style, regardless of their origin.
While the term itself is not commonly seen on wine labels, it is often mentioned by wine merchants and enthusiasts to describe wines that resemble the characteristics of Bordeaux-style reds. In the United States, a similar concept is referred to as Meritage, which holds a legal definition and is a registered trademark.
The flexibility and ambiguity of the Bordeaux Blend concept are its strengths, allowing discussions of wines with similar profiles across different regions. However, if the term becomes too broadly used, it risks losing its specific meaning. The question arises whether a wine can still be considered a Bordeaux Blend if it includes grape varieties such as Zinfandel, Sangiovese, or Syrah. Without a formal definition, the interpretation of the term relies on the collective understanding of those using it. As long as Bordeaux’s winemakers do not introduce new grape varieties (since Cabernet Sauvignon is a relatively recent addition), the definition of the term remains relatively clear.
Red Bordeaux Blends are renowned for their robust structure and deep flavors. They often exhibit notes of dark fruits like plum and blackcurrant, though a wide range of flavor descriptors have been used to capture their essence. These wines typically possess high tannin levels, providing a firm structure.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are the dominant grape varieties in Bordeaux Blends. Many of these wines are exclusively crafted from a blend of these two varieties. Other components that contribute to the blend’s complexity include Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Malbec, and occasionally Carmenere. While Carmenere is not commonly used in modern Bordeaux vineyards, a few notable exceptions include Haut-Bailly, Brane-Cantenac, and Clerc-Milon.
The Bordeaux style has transcended borders, with winemakers from various countries adopting its techniques and creating their own interpretations of the Bordeaux Blend. North and South America, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, as well as regions in North Africa and the Middle East, have all embraced this style and produced their unique expressions of the blend.
When it comes to food pairings, a Bordeaux Blend complements rich, savory dishes such as steak entrecôte with red wine sauce and shallots, grass-fed wagyu rib-eye fillet, and roast leg of lamb seasoned with rosemary and garlic.
The Bordeaux Red Blend continues to captivate wine lovers with its rich flavors, structured tannins, and international appeal. Whether enjoyed in its traditional Bordeaux setting or discovered in the vineyards of other winegrowing regions, this blend remains a testament to the artistry and versatility of winemaking.
Faq
What is a Bordeaux Blend Red wine?
Primary flavors of Bordeaux Blend Red wine
What is the taste profile of Bordeaux Blend Red wine?
How should you serve Bordeaux Blend Red wine?
What foods pair well with Bordeaux Blend Red wine?
What are the top three grape varieties typically used in a red Bordeaux blend?
Is Bordeaux blend dry?
What's an interesting fact about Bordeaux?
-
Rated 4.05 out of 5(22 reviews)
Le Pauilliac de Haut-Bages Liberal 2015
$41.95PRICE CLUB members save $2 per bottle13.00% /750ml /Vintage: 2015- WE 94
- DEC 91
- JD 90
Free Shipping
12 bottlesPlease create an account for Free Shipping or Log In. -
Rated 3.93 out of 5(15 reviews)
Chateau Trianon Saint Emilion Grand Cru 2015
$49.95PRICE CLUB members save $1 per bottle14.50% /750ml /Vintage: 2015- WS 90
- JS 95
Free Shipping
12 bottlesPlease create an account for Free Shipping or Log In. -
Rated 3.92 out of 5(13 reviews)
Chateau Lalande Saint Julien 2019
$41.95PRICE CLUB members save $2 per bottle15.00% /750ml /Vintage: 2019- WS 91
- WE 93
- WA 90
Free Shipping
12 bottlesPlease create an account for Free Shipping or Log In. -
Rated 3.75 out of 5(5 reviews)
Andrew Will Sorella 2019
$94.95PRICE CLUB members save $13 per bottle14.50% /750ml /Vintage: 2019- WA 99
- JD 97
- VIN 95
Free Shipping
12 bottlesPlease create an account for Free Shipping or Log In. -
Rated 4.00 out of 5(10 reviews)
Alexander Valley Cyrus 2017
$67.95PRICE CLUB members save $5 per bottle14.50% /750ml /Vintage: 2017- WE 95
- JS 92
- TSJ 98
Free Shipping
6 bottlesPlease create an account for Free Shipping or Log In. -
Rated 4.18 out of 5(18 reviews)
Les Cadrans de Lassegue 2021
$39.95PRICE CLUB members save $8 per bottle13.50% /750ml /Vintage: 2021Free Shipping
12 bottlesPlease create an account for Free Shipping or Log In. -
Rated 3.96 out of 5(25 reviews)
Le Serre Nuove Dell’Ornellaia 2021
$69.95PRICE CLUB members save $10 per bottle14.50% /750ml /Vintage: 2021Free Shipping
12 bottlesPlease create an account for Free Shipping or Log In. -
Rated 3.69 out of 5(14 reviews)
Gaja Ca Marcanda Camarcanda 2019
$199.95PRICE CLUB members save $8 per bottle14.50% /750ml /Vintage: 2019- WS 95
- WA 97
- JS 95
Free Shipping
12 bottlesPlease create an account for Free Shipping or Log In. -
Rated 4.00 out of 5(23 reviews)
Blackbird Vineyards Arise Red 2019
$47.95PRICE CLUB members save $7 per bottle14.10% /750ml /Vintage: 2019- JD 93
- JS 92
Free Shipping
12 bottlesPlease create an account for Free Shipping or Log In. -
Rated 4.20 out of 5(26 reviews)
Clos Apalta 2020
$126.9515.00% /750ml /Vintage: 2020- WS 93
- DEC 93
- JS 95
Free Shipping
6 bottlesPlease create an account for Free Shipping or Log In. -
Rated 4.38 out of 5(14 reviews)
Chateau Lassegue 2019
$74.95PRICE CLUB members save $7 per bottle14.00% /750ml /Vintage: 2019- WA 92
- DEC 94
- JS 96
Free Shipping
12 bottlesPlease create an account for Free Shipping or Log In. -
Rated 4.00 out of 5(3 reviews)
Peter Michael L Esprit Des Pavots 2020
$139.95PRICE CLUB members save $7 per bottle16.10% /750ml /Vintage: 2020- WA 94
- JD 94
- JS 93
Free Shipping
3 bottlesPlease create an account for Free Shipping or Log In. -
Rated 3.83 out of 5(19 reviews)
Orin Swift Papillon Napa Valley 2021
$79.9515.50% /750ml /Vintage: 2021- WA 93
Free Shipping
6 bottlesPlease create an account for Free Shipping or Log In. -
(0 review)
Vineyard 29 Cru Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
$74.95PRICE CLUB members save $25 per bottle14.60% /750ml /Vintage: 2021Free Shipping
12 bottlesPlease create an account for Free Shipping or Log In. -
(0 review)
Cayuse Flying Pig Red 2021
$169.95PRICE CLUB members save $20 per bottle13.80% /750ml /Vintage: 2021Free Shipping
3 bottlesPlease create an account for Free Shipping or Log In. -
(0 review)
Hestan ‘Stephanie’ Proprietary Red Blend 2017
$74.95PRICE CLUB members save $12 per bottle14.60% /750ml /Vintage: 2017Free Shipping
6 bottlesPlease create an account for Free Shipping or Log In.