Bordeaux Region: Flashcards
(18 cards)
What is the dominant grape variety in the Haut- Medoc?
Cabernet Sauvignon
Which grape variety is the dominant grape variety in Saint- Emilion?
Merlot
Which is the highest level of Grand Cru classification in Saint-Emilion?
Saint- Emilion Premier Grand Cru Classe A
What is the most widely planted grape variety in the whole of Bordeaux?
Merlot
What is the dominant grape variety in the appellation Blaye?
Merlot
What white grape varieties are permitted under Bordeaux AOC law?
Sauvignon Blanc (gris), Semillon, Muscadelle, Ugni Blanc, Colombard, Merlot Blanc
Why is Semillon used to make sweet wines?
Thin skinned, affinity for noble rot
What is blended with Sémillon in the premium dry white wines of Pessac-Léognan and Graves? What is Sémillon’s role in these blends?
Sauvignon Blanc -
Semillon adds body
What aromas do Sauvignon Blanc based wines produce in Bordeaux?
Citrus and green fruit
What is the role of Sauvignon Blanc in Bordeaux blends?
It adds acidity
What is the role of Sauvignon Blanc in Bordeaux blends?
It adds acidity
What is the importance of Sauvignon Blanc in sweet wines of Bordeaux?
It adds a necessary acidity to balance sweetness
What flavours does Muscadelle have?
Pronounced grapey, floral flavours
What role does Muscadelle play in Bordeaux?
It plays an important role in sweet and dry white wines of Bordeaux (it makes up a small percentage of the blend).
What is the general style of lower-end dry whites in Bordeaux?
Fresh and fruity. Some show hints of oak.
How are less expensive dry Bordeaux whites generally vinified?
Fermented in temperature controlled, inert vessels with minimal further ageing.
How are premium dry whites generally vinified in Bordeaux?
Frequently fermented and matured in new oak barrels
What is distinctive about the premium dry whites of Bordeaux?
They have a richness and concentrated nutty flavour overlaying the fruit
