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Located in the south-west quarter of France, the Bordeaux wine region is renowned for its great wines. Among its many appellations is the AOC Bordeaux Haut-Medoc, which covers 4,800 hectares in 6 communes north of Bordeaux. Cabernet Sauvignon is the grape variety most commonly used to produce these red wines (the only colour in the appellation), followed by Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. These wines have an ageing potential of 5 to 15 years, and even longer for certain vintages.

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Château Fontesteau Bordeaux
€19.90
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Château Fontesteau Bordeaux
€18.90
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AOC Haut-Médoc: Everything You Need to Know About the Wines from This Appellation

History of the AOC Haut-Médoc

Located on the left bank of the Gironde, Haut-Médoc is an iconic appellation in the Bordeaux vineyard. Its viticultural history dates back to Roman times, but it was during the Middle Ages that this region truly began to distinguish itself, thanks to the success of Bordeaux merchants. Today, AOC Haut-Médoc is globally recognized for its elegant and powerful red wines that age wonderfully.

Climate and Terroir of the AOC Haut-Médoc

  • Climate: Thanks to the proximity of the Gironde estuary, the climate in Haut-Médoc is oceanic, with hot summers and mild winters. This temperate climate favors the harmonious maturation of grapes.
  • Soils: The appellation is renowned for its gravelly and well-drained soils, providing an ideal terroir for Bordeaux grape varieties, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon.

Key Grape Varieties of the AOC Haut-Médoc

Cabernet Sauvignon dominates in AOC Haut-Médoc, bringing structure and aging potential to the wines. However, Merlot is also very present, contributing roundness and fruity notes. Together, they create harmonious wines that are both powerful and velvety, often with a touch of Cabernet Franc, Malbec, or Petit Verdot.

Style of AOC Haut-Médoc Wines

  • Appearance: Deep red color, ranging from ruby to dark garnet.
  • Aroma: Aromas of ripe black fruits (blackcurrant), violet, vanilla, and spices. With age, notes of undergrowth, leather, and tobacco emerge.
  • Palate: On the palate, AOC Haut-Médoc wines are structured yet elegant, with powerful and silky tannins ensuring good aging potential.
  • Serving Temperature: 16°-18°C.
  • Aging Potential: These wines have excellent aging potential, maturing in the cellar for 8 to 15 years, or even longer for exceptional vintages.

Best Food Pairings with a Wine from AOC Haut-Médoc

Here are some perfect food and wine pairings with a red Bordeaux wine from a domain or château in AOC Haut-Médoc:

  • Magret de Canard (Duck Breast)
  • Lamproie à la Bordelaise (Lamprey Eel in Bordeaux Sauce)
  • Entrecôte with Mushroom Sauce
  • Roast Leg of Lamb