The Richness of Bordeaux White Wines: A Testament to Ancestral Expertise

The richness of Bordeaux white wines lies in an age-old savoir-faire: the art of blending. It is this ability to combine complementary grape varieties that gives Bordeaux white wines their complexity and renown. Let’s explore the diversity of Bordeaux white grape varieties, from the most emblematic to the more discreet ones.

Sémillon: The Grape of Great Sweet White Wines

As the principal grape variety in prestigious sweet and dessert wines like Sauternes and Graves, Sémillon ranks second among the finest white grape varieties. With its round and full-bodied profile, it develops enchanting aromas of apricot, honey, and sometimes dried fruits. When affected by “noble rot” (Botrytis cinerea), it achieves remarkable complexity and concentration, revealing rich and spicy notes.
In blends, Sémillon pairs perfectly with Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle to create dry white wines with subtle and elegant aromas, particularly in the Graves region.

Sauvignon Blanc and Sauvignon Gris: Freshness and Minerality

A flagship grape of Bordeaux’s dry white wines, Sauvignon Blanc is prized for its liveliness and refined aromatic bouquet. Its characteristic notes of citrus, boxwood, and fig leaves make it a global reference. On certain terroirs, it also exhibits floral and mineral touches that enhance blends.
Sauvignon Gris, a natural mutation of Sauvignon Blanc, stands out with more exotic aromas like grapefruit and tropical fruits, as well as a fuller structure. Less acidic than its white counterpart, it adds richness and complexity. Although less common, it remains a sought-after variety for its unique qualities.

Ugni Blanc: The Italian-Origin Grape

Originating from Tuscany, where it is known as Trebbiano Toscano, Ugni Blanc is valued for its natural acidity and freshness. In blends, it balances dry white wines by contributing a distinct vivacity. Though less than 2% of Bordeaux’s vineyard area is dedicated to this grape, it plays a quiet yet significant role in certain cuvées. Ugni Blanc is also known by various names such as Malvoisie, Clairette, or Queue de Renard.

Muscadelle: A Minor but Essential Variety

A minor yet essential grape variety, Muscadelle is one of the hidden gems of Bordeaux vineyards. Used as a complement in blends for both dry and sweet white wines, Muscadelle contributes marked aromatic intensity with floral (white flowers, jasmine) and musky notes.
Although it represents a small share of plantings, Muscadelle plays a crucial role in achieving balance in Bordeaux white wines, adding roundness and power. Often mistaken for Muscat, it has its own distinct identity, both delicate and expressive. It is also known by names such as Issal de Tarayre, Marmésie, Bouillenc, Musquette, Raisinote, Cadillac, or Muscat Fou in Dordogne.

Colombard: A Formerly Charentais Grape Variety

A natural cross between Gouais Blanc and Chenin Blanc, Colombard is an old Charentais grape variety that has found its place in Blayais and Bourgeais. Its lively and aromatic wines reveal notes of citrus (lemon, grapefruit) and white flowers, with a refreshing crispness on the palate.
Though representing less than 1% of Bordeaux’s white vineyard area, Colombard charms with its bold and authentic character. It is also known as “bon blanc” in Vendée, “blanquette” in Lot-et-Garonne, or “colombier.”

Merlot Blanc: A Rare Grape Variety

Born from a cross between Folle Blanche and Merlot Noir, Merlot Blanc is an extremely rare variety in Bordeaux, accounting for only 0.2% of the white vineyard area. Early-ripening and consistent, it produces neutral and light wines, which are seldom replanted today.

What truly distinguishes Bordeaux white wines is the harmony achieved through blending these grape varieties. While Sauvignon Blanc brings freshness and vivacity, Sémillon adds roundness and richness, and Muscadelle enhances the blend with its floral aromatic palette. To deepen your knowledge and refine your palate, join our training program, “Advising and Promoting Bordeaux Wines,” led by Matthias Seignette, our Bordeaux wine expert! You’ll learn all about the subtleties of Bordeaux grape varieties and taste the finest vintages.

And to complete your journey, discover Bordeaux’s red grape varieties, which have earned this exceptional wine region its stellar reputation.