AOC Bordeaux supérieur Wine

History of the AOC Bordeaux Supérieur Appellation

At the heart of the prestigious Bordeaux vineyard, the AOC Bordeaux Supérieur represents a quality tier above the Bordeaux appellation. With stricter production rules, this appellation guarantees wines of superior quality. Depending on the château, red wines are generally more structured, more tannic, and have better aging potential than AOC Bordeaux wines. While red wines dominate this appellation, there are also some sweet white wines.

Climate and Terroir of the AOC Bordeaux Supérieur Appellation

Climate: The AOC Bordeaux Supérieur enjoys a temperate oceanic climate, protected by the Landes de Gascogne, with influences from the Garonne and Dordogne rivers that regulate temperatures.

Soils: The soils of the AOC Bordeaux Supérieur consist mainly of gravel, clay, and limestone. These diverse soils, combined with the temperate climate, allow for the production of wines that are both powerful and elegant.

Essential Grape Varieties of the AOC Bordeaux Supérieur Appellation

In the AOC Bordeaux Supérieur, Merlot is the leading grape variety for red wines, often complemented by Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. For sweet white wines, Sémillon is the dominant variety, blended with Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle.

Style of AOC Bordeaux Supérieur Wines

Red Wine: The red wines of the AOC Bordeaux Supérieur display an intense ruby color. The nose reveals aromas of red and black fruits (blackcurrant, cherry), evolving into spicy, vanilla, and undergrowth notes with age. On the palate, these wines are full-bodied and generous, with ripe and silky tannins.

Sweet White Wine: The rare sweet white wines of the AOC Bordeaux Supérieur are characterized by a golden color. On the nose, they release aromas of white-fleshed fruits, candied citrus, and honey. On the palate, these wines are smooth and creamy, offering a beautiful balance between sweetness and freshness.

Best Food Pairings with AOC Bordeaux Supérieur Wines

Here are the best food pairings to enjoy with a bottle of wine from an AOC Bordeaux Supérieur estate or château:

Red Wine: Tournedos Rossini, venison stew, leg of lamb.

Sweet White Wine: Foie gras, blue-veined cheeses (Roquefort, Bleu d'Auvergne), yellow fruit desserts (Tarte Tatin, clafoutis).