Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a region in south-west France bisected by the river Gironde Estuary, producing high quality red, white and sweet wines. The region can be split into two distinct styles on different sides of the river, 'left bank' and 'right bank'. On the left bank the vineyards are typically free-draining gravel soils, while the right bank has a higher proportion of clay. Bordeaux as a whole enjoys a continental-maritime climate. Red wines are typically a blend of grape varieties. Wines from the left bank of the river are usually the traditional 'Bordeaux Blend' of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc, while those from the right bank are typically Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Dry and sweet white wines are made from a blend of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc, although some dry whites are produced using 100% Sauvignon Blanc.