The viticulture region around Bordeaux is the largest contiguous region in the world. There is an almost perfect climate for viticulture. Here are not only the origins of the most internationally successful grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, but also the barricade aging technique or the art of blending different grape varieties. Red, white and sweet wines, which definitely have a place at the top of the wine olympics, are produced here.
The best chateux and astronomical prices
The region represents quality more than anywhere else in the world. Almost a quarter of French wines come from here. And: 98% of wines are of controlled and protected origin. The region is inextricably linked with such world-famous names as “Pétrus”, “Cheval Blanc”, “Mouton-Rothschild”, “Château Margaux” or “Latour”. For every wine lover, a bottle, or at least a glass of the best league of Grand Crus, is at the top of the to-do list, as is a sip of a well-known Burgundy. Space-ripened 2000 Petrus is considered the most expensive wine in the world, with an auction price of $1 million per bottle.
A wide range of quality
And yet Bordeaux is much more than the (extremely) priced best wines. Here you can always find bargains, even in bad vintages that you could easily store for decades and still continue to gain ground. Although the region has had to contend with drought, wildfires or heavy rains in recent years due to climate change, vineyards are constantly adapting and grape varieties such as the Portuguese “Touriga Nacional” are now officially approved. In addition, the region also makes a big impact in terms of organic viticulture. Unlike the last century, sustainability is a top priority not only for the best wines, but also for a broader segment.
Of course, you’ll find plenty of wine from Bordeaux in Coop’s wide range of wines. Red or white, expensive or cheap, mature or young: there is something for every taste!
Inspire yourself!
I focused on lesser known names. And after an intense tasting phase, I decided on four different wines that offered one thing above all: fun to drink and value for money.
4 Burgundy for little money
The article comes from Tobias Gysi, a wine scholar and Swiss sommelier.