Bordeaux Blanc - A Dry White that is Crisp, Fresh, Perfect For Sipping in the Hot Sun

posted by Bob Orlandi on October 21, 2015 in Wine Regions

Yes, Bordeaux produces mainly red wine, but did you know that about 10% of all Bordeaux wine is white? Dry White Bordeaux, primarily from the Pessac Leognan appellation, are in the same class as the world's best white wines. We have many Pessac-Leognan dry whites featured in the list below, but we also have several from other sub-appellations, like the popular "Y" wines from Yquem.

Unlike other dry white wine producing regions, Bordeaux plants Semillon (54%), Sauvignon Blanc (36%), Muscadelle (7%), and a few other  grape varieties. The dry whites from Pessac Leognan are always blends, with typically about 70% Sauvignon Blanc. These wineries also ferment at lower temperatures, usually 64-68 deg-F, to slow the fermentation process and allow more concentrated flavors to develop. Very few chateaux, especially the top tier estates, allow malolactc fermentation, using sulfur to halt it, so that the wines are fresh and crisp. Aging the wine on its lees is most common, resulting in a richer, more complex wine.

I, personally, appreciate these wines because the citrus-freshness of the Bordeaux Blancs are a pure pleasure to sip on a super hot summer day (of which we had many this year here in Sonoma). And it pairs perfectly with fish, grilled vegetables and salads. But the best feature of the Bordeaux Blanc is its ability to age gracefully. It is wonderful to drink young, but even more amazing after several years in the bottle.

When you indulge in one of these wines, you can definitely expect a stunning, character-filled, sublime experience. Perfect for a Thanksgiving meal pairing or for white wine lovers any day of the week!