As with any large, and thus variable, appellation, the generic Bordeaux AOC is responsible for the good, bad, and ugly wines of the region. Overall, quality is of a decent standard, although the best wines are unlikely to fit the classic descriptions that have made the region famous. Wines carrying the generic appellation may come from any AOC vineyard in the entire Gironde. Some of the most interesting wines are from classic areas where the more specific appellation is confined to a precise style: such as a red Bordeaux produced by a château in Sauternes. If the wine is a brand, it should be ready to drink. If it is a château wine, the address should reveal its origin, and the price will be an indication of its quality and a guide to when it should be drunk.
RED Most are simply dry, luncheon claret styles, made for early drinking and usually softened by a high Merlot content.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Carmenère, Merlot, Malbec, Petit Verdot
1–5 years
WHITE All medium-dry, basic white bordeaux contain at least 4 grams of residual sugar per liter, and have a certain sweetness. It is by far the most variable appellation category, with many dull wines. If the wine contains less than 4 grams of residual sugar per liter, the Bordeaux appellation must be qualified by “Sec.” These dry whites are also variable, but most of the best wines of the appellation are found among them. They may be sold from December 1 without any mention of primeur or nouveau.
Sémillon, Sauvignon, Muscadelle plus up to 30% in total of Merlot Blanc, Colombard, Mauzac, Ondenc, Ugni Blanc
1–2 years
ROSÉ When made by individual properties, this medium-dry, medium-bodied wine can be attractive. These wines may be sold from December 1 following the harvest without any mention of primeur or nouveau.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Carmenère, Merlot, Malbec, Petit Verdot kImmediately
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