If you’ve ever wondered why there is such a fuss in the wine world regarding the release of vintage Bordeaux, you are likely not alone. That said, those in the know, are part of a cult-like following for what is arguable, the greatest wines on the planet.
Bordeaux does create white wines and a small amount of rose, but it is the reds that garner most of the attention. The reds are created from a shortlist of allowable grape varieties, which mostly consist of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petite Verdot, and Malbec. Bordeaux is generally split into two main sections known as the Left and Right Banks. The Left bank, close to the ocean, gets a maritime effect and therefore is best for Cabernet which prefers a cooler climate, and is the dominant grape here. The Right Bank features clay soil, which Merlot thrives in. Most of the famed Chateaux are on the Left Bank except for a few very special ones on the Right Bank. The top chateaux fetch incredibly high prices for their wines and are the cult favorites. The good news is good Bordeaux is affordable at the basic level often known as “Petit Chateaux”.
If you’ve never had a great steak and Bordeaux, you are missing one of life’s little pleasures. You don’t have to break the bank to get started either! The New Hampshire Liquor Outlets have one of the greatest selections of Bordeaux in the nation and you can find a bottle from under $10.00 to, ahem, well, much more.
Have a look at our Bordeaux page to see the latest vintage!
