Climate / Geography
Sweet white Bordeaux is mostly made along the banks of the Garonne
river, with a strong concentration of appellations in the south of the
Gironde department. Proximity to the Garonne protects this area from
excessive temperature variations and gives it the special micro-climate
which is especially favourable to the production of great sweet white
wines.
The left bank of the Garonne has gravelly, limestone, and
clay-limestone soil. The right bank vineyards are on south-east facing
slopes composed of clay-limestone, clay-gravel and sandy soils.
The triple alliance of soil; sub-soil and climate gives rise to the
amazing diversity and individual character of Bordeaux vineyards.
Types of wine / grapes
The special micro-climate of the region favours the growth of the “noble
rot” on ripened grapes. The fungus penetrates the grape, concentrating
the sugar and compressing the bouquet and aroma-enhancing elements in the
grape.
The Sémillon is widely planted (73%), giving some delicate aromas,
richness and spreading out deliciously on the palate. Sauvignon Blanc
provides a touch of freshness and vigour. Muscadelle makes quite round and
aromatic wines.
The bouquet is often reminiscent of exotic fruit, honey, linden flowers
of acacia. The wines are well-balanced, with a full, long-tasting flavour.
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