Bordeaux, Part 1

Bordeaux Grape Varietals

Seeing as there are around 14 different varietals accepted in the AC (Appellation d’Origine Controlee), we will just go through a few today.

Cabernet Sauvignon -
This grape is widely recognized as the classic black variety of Bordeaux. It accounts for three-quarters of the blend in the finest wines of Medoc, where it is mostly found strutting around with crisp new suits, and a superiority complex rivaling that of most wine snooties.

Ok, back to the Cabernet Sauvignon. This lovely grape accounts for no more than 29 percent of black grapes. It only gives moderate yields, but produces quality tannic wines with characteristic blackcurrant aroma when fully ripe. But, as most things come with a string attached, this grape is difficult to ripen and can produce very rough and vegetal wines which are only usable if combined with the “softer” Merlot.

Cabernet Franc -
Mainly grown in Saint-Emilion, and somewhat in Medoc and Graves. It gives bigger yields than the Cabernet Sauvignon, but has less body and finesse (Not much of a tennis player either). It’s flavors tend to stray into the herbaceous/stalky area.

Merlot -
Ok, this varietal has gotten a bad rap since a certain movie came out in the early 2000s. That movie pretty much personified what a wine snooty is, and managed to drag down the Merlot grape with it. Wine was designed to be consumed, not judged like a contestant on a “talent” providing TV show.

Annnnd breathe.

Merlots produces a medium yield of full-bodied, moderately tannic wines, which mature earlier than their seemingly male counterpart, the Cabernet Sauvignon. Merlot adds a certain softness, richness, and body when added to the Cab. This grape is particularly important in Saint-Emilion and Pomerol, where it benefits from limestone soils, and helping its testosterone heavy counterparts talk about their feelings, and cuddling. On it’s own, it can tend to lack character unless it’s yields are low, and enjoys mixing with Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon to provide more aromatic fruit, color, tannin, and the occasional gossip.


Wine Reccomendation

Marimar Estate's 2007 Acero Chardonnay $29

Winemaker's Notes: The signature aromas are the fragrant notes of Meyer lemon and tapioca pudding from the Rued clone, harmoniously combined with the classic, delicate flavors of Golden Delicious apple and white peach from the See clone. On the palate the wine is fresh and lively, full flavored but with a very dry finish that makes it an ideal companion to food.

Wine-Fitti Opinion: Marimar Estate is one of my favorite Californian vineyards, that I discovered during a trip to Sonoma County during the summer. In my opinion they have turned out nothing but consistent Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays, and this bottle is no exception. It is a very well balanced and with a lightly oaked flavor that doesn't overpower the wine. You could easily pair this with lemon piccata, or any other lemon dish be it savory or sweet. For any lover of Chardonnays, I highly recommend this wine.