Item added to cart
The Bordeaux appellation and the Bordeaux Supérieur appellation are based on the same geographical foundation. Nevertheless, the two AOCs are distinguished by their level of requirements, their wine style, and their qualitative potential.
The Bordeaux AOC constitutes the basic regional appellation. It covers the entire Bordeaux vineyard and allows for the production of red, dry white, sweet white, and rosé wines. Its specifications are deliberately flexible in order to reflect the diversity of terroirs and styles.The permitted yields are relatively high, allowing for the production of accessible wines, fruity and designed for consumption in their relative youth. The reds are generally dominated by Merlot, with immediate fruit and little aging, while the whites focus on freshness and liveliness, notably based on Sauvignon Blanc.
The Bordeaux Supérieur AOC is, for its part, part of a more qualitative approach. The appellation mainly concerns red wines and, to a lesser extent, whites. The specifications are stricter, with lower maximum yields and reinforced constraints. These rules aim to produce more concentrated and structured wines.The grapes must reach a higher natural alcohol level, which often results in a denser substance.
In terms of vinification and aging, the Bordeaux Supérieur appellation also imposes additional requirements. The wines must indeed benefit from a longer aging period before being released to the market. In terms of style and aging potential, the difference is also clear. A Bordeaux is generally designed to be enjoyed in its youth, for its fruitiness and freshness. Conversely, a Bordeaux Supérieur offers a more pronounced structure, a more accomplished balance, and a higher aging potential.
The red Bordeaux represent the majority of production in AOC Bordeaux. They are most often based on a predominance of Merlot, complemented by Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. The style is generally supple and indulgent, with aromas of fresh red fruits (cherry, strawberry, raspberry), sometimes accompanied by slightly spicy notes. The tannins are moderate, the structure balanced, and the aging remains discreet, rarely marked by wood.
Dry white Bordeaux wines are mostly made from Sauvignon blanc, often blended with Sémillon and sometimes muscadelle. They offer a lively and aromatic profile, marked by citrus, exotic fruits, and floral notes.
Bordeaux rosés are light, fresh, and fruity, made mainly from merlot and cabernet. They highlight aromas of small red fruits and a refreshing palate, designed for summer consumption.
The AOC Bordeaux Supérieur offers more ambitious wines, with greater concentration, structure, and aromatic depth.
The reds Bordeaux Supérieur form the heart of the appellation. The blends remain close to those of classic Bordeaux. Lower yields and greater ripeness result in denser wines, with aromas of ripe black fruits (blackcurrant, blackberry, plum), complemented by notes of spices, licorice, and sometimes oak. The tannic structure is more pronounced, the aging longer, and the aging potential higher.
The whites Bordeaux Supérieur, which are rarer, are also made from the same grape varieties (Sauvignon and Sémillon) but are distinguished by a fuller body, a rounder texture, and increased aromatic complexity. They feature notes of yellow fruits, honey, and sometimes a touch of oak depending on the aging process used by the château.
To fully appreciate a wine from one of these AOCs, a few simple rules will help reveal all its nuances.
Bordeaux red wines pair perfectly with grilled meats and poultry. The most supple wines can also be enjoyed as an aperitif with a beautiful charcuterie board.
White wines, fresh and aromatic, are ideally enjoyed with seafood, grilled fish or vegetarian dishes. Sauvignon brings liveliness, while Sémillon adds richness and finesse.
It is recommended to serve red wines around 16–18°C, while dry whites are best enjoyed between 8 and 10°C.
To purchase a quality bottle from AOC Bordeaux, La Cave Éclairée offers you a rigorous selection of cuvées representing the richness of this great region. Each product on our site comes with a detailed description to guide you in your choices.
We also make it a point of honor to offer attractive prices, while guaranteeing the authenticity of the wines offered, whether they come from a renowned château or a more confidential estate. Fast delivery, secure packaging, and available customer service: everything is in place to allow you to discover or rediscover the world of Bordeaux wines with complete peace of mind !
So, what are you waiting for to discover our selected cuvées and enjoy the best of Bordeaux wines ?
