AOC Côtes de Bourg

History of the AOC Côtes-de-Bourg Appellation

Located in the heart of the Bordeaux region, the AOC Côtes-de-Bourg, sometimes simply referred to as “Bourg” or “Bourgeais,” has a winemaking history that dates back to Roman times. Officially recognized in 1936, this appellation, bordering the Dordogne and Garonne rivers, is sometimes nicknamed “Little Gironde Switzerland” due to its hilly terrain. Although less publicized than some of its Bordeaux neighbors, the AOC Côtes-de-Bourg offers red and white wines with excellent value for money.

Climate and Terroir of the AOC Côtes-de-Bourg Appellation

Climate: The temperate oceanic climate of the region benefits from the regulating influence of the adjacent rivers, allowing optimal ripening of the grapes.
Soils: The AOC Côtes-de-Bourg benefits from a variety of soils, mainly composed of clay, limestone, and gravel, which gives the wines great finesse and complexity.

Key Grape Varieties of the AOC Côtes-de-Bourg

The AOC Côtes-de-Bourg offers blended wines with the main grape varieties being:

• Merlot (red wine)
• Cabernet Sauvignon (red wine)
• Cabernet Franc (red wine)
• Malbec or Côt (red wine)
• Colombard (white wine)
• Ugni Blanc (white wine)
• Sémillon (white wine)
• Sauvignon Blanc (white wine)
• Muscadelle (white wine)

Style of AOC Côtes-de-Bourg Wines

Red wine: Deep ruby red color with purplish hues. The aromatic palette develops notes of ripe red fruits, spices, and sometimes hints of wood or vanilla. Structured, round, and full-bodied on the palate, AOC Côtes-de-Bourg red wines offer silky tannins and a beautiful finish.
Dry white wine: Pale yellow color with green highlights. The nose reveals aromas of white flowers, citrus, and white-fleshed fruits. The rare AOC Côtes-de-Bourg white wines are fresh, opulent, and harmonious on the palate.

Best Food and Wine Pairings with AOC Côtes-de-Bourg Wines

Here are some tips for ideal food and wine pairings with a bottle from a domain or château in AOC Côtes-de-Bourg, whether white or red:
Red wine: Grilled beef ribeye, duck breast, homemade burger
Dry white wine: Gizzard salad, monkfish stew, veal paupiettes