Bordeaux

Bordeaux is one of the most important wine producing regions in the world. It lies near the Atlantic coast, in the south west of France. It takes its name from the region's main city, although the vineyards only start at the hedge of the city. One third of the good quality wine in France is coming from Bordeaux: it is 57 appellations, about 7,000 wine-producing châteaux, and 13,000 wine growers. The large diversity of Bordeaux suggests an equal diversity of soil. Most of the grapes grown in the Bordeaux region for red wine are Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, which give vigour, tannin and good keeping qualities, and Merlot, which brings softness and suppleness. Merlot is the most planted grape in Bordeaux, covering 50% of the wine region.