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 from the Premières Côtes de Bordeaux appellation. The latter is not being phased out, but remains reserved for sweet and dessert white wines produced in the region. Thus, the Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux vineyard stretches across a 60-km strip that, on the right bank, follows the Garonne River upstream from Bordeaux 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 contain fine-textured elements, such as silty clay, in the lower areas, and coarser elements—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 lends the wine roundness, richness, and approachability, even when young. This grape variety is blended with Cabernet Sauvignon, which contributes spicy notes and good tannic structure; Cabernet Franc, for its finesse and delicate bouquet; 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. Fruity by nature, these wines are best enjoyed young. However, their tannic structure allows them to age well. Over time, Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux wines develop tertiary aromas, such as game, mocha, or leather.