Bordeaux Clairet

In the Middle Ages, the Bordeaux region was already exporting its wine to Great Britain, where it was highly appreciated. Due to its light red color, the British called it "French Claret," or "French clear wine," or "French claret." The Bordeaux Clairet appellation thus perpetuates a centuries-old tradition of light red wines. Bordeaux Clairet wine is unique in that it is not a geographically defined appellation and can be found in the production areas of the Bordeaux appellations. The 700 hectares declared for the appellation allow for an annual wine production of around 40,000 hectoliters.

Like all red wines from the Bordeaux appellation, Bordeaux Clairet is a blended wine. The Merlot grape variety is often dominant, in order to enhance the fruit and aromas. Intermediate between reds and rosés, Bordeaux Clairet wines are light, delicious, full of freshness and very aromatic, in the tradition of the first Bordeaux wines exported to the United Kingdom. However, Bordeaux Clairet wines are Bordeaux wines in their own right. As such, they are subject to the same quality requirements as other red wines during production: yield restrictions (maximum 55 hl/ha), chemical analysis and tasting before approval. Estates such as Château de Lisennes, Château Penin and Château Turcaud are testament to this reputation.

On the palate, Bordeaux Clairet wines are fresh, light and velvety, with moderate tannins. They are easy to drink and best enjoyed young. They are particularly popular in summer, when they are the perfect accompaniment to picnics and barbecues.