The prestigious wines of Bordeaux, such as Pomerol, Saint-Estèphe, Margaux, Saint-Émilion or Sauternes, are known all over the world for their wonderful flavours. Made in six main wine-growing areas or terroirs, the Médoc, Sauternais, Graves, Libournais, Entre-Deux-Mers and Blayais-Bourgeais, which are in turn divided into several appellations, such as Margaux, Saint-Estèphe, Saint-Julien, Moulis-en-Médoc or Pauillac for the Médoc region for example, the wines of Bordeaux come in 57 different appellations!
The red wines, which make up around 80% of production, mainly come from the Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc grape varieties. The more tannic reds, such as Saint-Estèphe, Margaux, Pauillac and Saint-Émilion, go wonderfully with mature cheese and beef, game or duck. As for the less tannic reds like Les Graves or Entre-Deux-Mers, these are best enjoyed with a veal, pigeon or capon dish.
The rest of production in Gironde consists of dry or sweet white wines from the Sémillon, Sauvignon and Muscadelle varieties, as well as rosé wines from the same varieties as for red wines. While the dry white wines, which are fresh yet aromatic, are ideal with fish or seafood, the famous sweet white wines of Sauternais can be served with foie gras, Roquefort or dessert.
Every two years, in even years, the Girondine capital organises "Bordeaux celebrates wine" ("Bordeaux fête le vin") in late June, a major wine tourism event during which you can enjoy concerts, shows, activities and wine tastings!
