Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux

Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux and Côtes de Bordeaux are the new appellations granted specifically since November 1, 2009, to red wines produced within the Premières Côtes de Bordeaux appellation. The latter appellation has not been discontinued but remains reserved for sweet and dessert wines produced in the region. Thus, the Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux vineyard stretches across a 60-kilometer strip that, on the right bank, follows the Garonne River from Bordeaux upstream to Langon.

With abundant sunshine and clay-limestone or clay-gravel soils, the Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux appellation benefits from remarkable natural conditions. Well-drained by the natural slope, the soils feature fine-grained elements, such as silty clay, in the lower areas and coarser elements, such as pebbles and gravel, as one ascends the hills. The 3,450 hectares of vineyards in Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux yield a production of nearly 180,000 hectoliters of red wine.

The blend is dominated by Merlot, which brings roundness, richness, and approachability to the wine, even when young. This grape variety is combined with Cabernet Sauvignon, which contributes spicy notes and good tannic structure; Cabernet Franc, for its finesse and delicate nose; and, in small proportions, Malbec, which adds suppleness, lightness, and a touch of originality. Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux wines display a deep purple color verging on black. Naturally fruity, these wines are best enjoyed in their youth. However, their tannic structure allows them to age. Over time, Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux wines develop tertiary aromas, such as game, mocha, or leather.