Bordeaux Clairet

As early as the Middle Ages, the Bordeaux region was exporting its wine to Great Britain, where it was highly regarded. Because of its pale red color, the British called it “French Claret,” meaning “light French wine,” or “French clairet.” The Bordeaux Clairet appellation thus carries on a centuries-old tradition of light red wines. Bordeaux Clairet wine is unique in that it is not a geographically defined appellation and is found throughout the production areas of the Bordeaux appellations. The appellation’s 700 registered hectares allow for an annual wine production of around 40,000 hectoliters.

Like all red wines of the Bordeaux appellation, Bordeaux Clairet is a blended wine. The Merlot grape variety is often dominant, to enhance fruitiness and aromas. A cross between reds and rosés, Bordeaux Clairet wines are light, approachable, full of freshness, and highly aromatic, in the tradition of the first Bordeaux wines exported to the United Kingdom. Bordeaux Clairet wines are, however, Bordeaux wines in their own right. As such, they are subject to the same quality standards during production as other red wines: yield limits (maximum 55 hl/ha), chemical analysis, and tasting prior to approval. Estates such as Château de Lisennes, Château Penin, and Château Turcaud uphold this reputation.

On the palate, Bordeaux Clairet wines are fresh, light, and velvety, with moderate tannic structure. They are easy-drinking wines, best enjoyed young. They are particularly popular in the summer, where they make the perfect accompaniment to picnics and barbecues.