Bordeaux
Cabernet Sauvignon leads on the Left Bank, Merlot on the Right; styles range from approachable bottles to ageworthy wines.
To get started
Compare a Cabernet Sauvignon-led blend with one led by Merlot: texture can change as much as fruit character.
Key grapes
Cabernet Sauvignon — Structure, blackcurrant and ageing potential. Compare a young Cabernet with a mature one: tannins soften while fruit aromas can evolve.
Merlot — Plum, softness and roundness. Notice texture as well as fruit: Merlot can make a supple red alone or add roundness to a blend.
Compare regions
Compare regions in the same country too: the same grape can produce different wines as climate, site and producer choices change.
Style descriptions are guides, not rules: vintage, vineyard, blending and maturation change the result.
