Behind the label: Bordeaux

Bordeaux – that’s pronounced “Bore-doe” – refer to wines from the Bordeaux region of France. It’s important to remember that Bordeaux wines are a blend of grape varieties: over 90% are medium to full-bodied red wines, made with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. By choosing a wine from Bordeaux, you are tasting these varietals as grown in their home soil. 

The history of the wine from this region dates all the way back to the time of the ancient Romans, who were the first people to cultivate and produce Bordeaux wines in around 60 BC. It is thought that these first vines are related to grapes brought in from Spain, particularly the Rioja. As Bordeaux wines, they began to find initial fame in the first century, as it was distributed to Roman soldiers and citizens across the empire. Mentions of Bordeaux wine have been found in the ruins of Pompeii and other Roman ruins. 

Its originating region is a landscape perfect for cultivating grapes for wine, with a unique combination of the right soil with easy access to waterways. This also meant that it was one of the easiest varietals to spread in ancient times. Fast forward several centuries, and the city of Bordeaux had become a large city – by the 1300s, it was the second-most populous under the control of the British monarchy, after London, with an economy predominantly driven by its most famous export. 

Today, the region remains one of the most famous for wine, with a craft that has been perfected over centuries. Wines are best served at slightly below room temperature, after being decanted for 30 minutes.