Introduction

Bordeaux Blend is one of the world’s most famous and highly regarded wine blends, originating from the Bordeaux region of France. It typically consists of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and occasionally Malbec or Petit Verdot. Although all four grapes are considered essential components, some winemakers have been experimenting with Petit Verdot as a secret ingredient to achieve the perfect Bordeaux blend. In this blog post, we will explore the history of Bordeaux Blend and the role of each grape in the blend, but most importantly, we will delve into the potential of Petit Verdot as the secret to achieving a perfect Bordeaux Blend.

History of Bordeaux Blend

Bordeaux Blend originated from the Bordeaux region of France, where winemakers have been making wine for centuries. The region is known for producing some of the world’s most famous and highly regarded wines, with Bordeaux Blend being the most beloved. It typically consists of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and occasionally Malbec or Petit Verdot.

The first recorded mention of Bordeaux wine dates back to the Roman era, but it wasn’t until the 12th century that Bordeaux wine received international recognition. It was during this time that Bordeaux wine began to be exported to England, where it became incredibly popular amongst the English nobility. Bordeaux wine became so popular that it was referred to as “claret” in England, a term that is still used today to refer to Bordeaux wine.

The popularity of Bordeaux wine continued to rise throughout the 19th century, with the wine becoming a symbol of sophistication and luxury. Bordeaux wine was then shipped to different parts of the world, where it became a standard for winemaking. Today, Bordeaux Blend is still considered one of the most prestigious wine blends in the world.

Grapes Used in Bordeaux Blend

Bordeaux Blend typically consists of four grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and sometimes Malbec or Petit Verdot. Each grape brings its own distinct characteristics to the blend, with winemakers carefully selecting each grape in order to achieve a balance of flavors. Here’s a brief overview of each grape:

The Secret Ingredient: Petit Verdot

Although all four grapes are considered essential components of Bordeaux Blend, some winemakers have been experimenting with Petit Verdot as a secret ingredient to add more structure, depth, and tannins to the blend. Petit Verdot is a late-ripening grape that is difficult to grow, but when it is grown well, it can add complexity and depth to the wine. It is typically used in small amounts, usually 1-5%, but some winemakers have been increasing the percentage to 10-20% to create a more intense and full-bodied wine.

Many winemakers believe that Petit Verdot is the key to achieving a perfect Bordeaux Blend. It can add notes of spice, blackberry, and violet to the wine, as well as a hint of pencil lead or graphite. It can also add tannins to the wine, which can give it a longer aging potential. Petit Verdot is more commonly used in the blends of the left bank of Bordeaux, where Cabernet Sauvignon is the dominant grape.

Tasting Notes

Bordeaux Blend can vary significantly in taste depending on the proportions of each grape used in the blend. However, some common tasting notes include:

• Blackcurrant
• Plum
• Cassis
• Tobacco
• Chocolate
• Graphite

The specific tasting notes can be influenced by the soil, climate, and winemaking techniques used in the region where the wine is produced. Bordeaux Blend can also vary in color from deep ruby red to purple, depending on the blend and the age of the wine.

Food Pairing

Bordeaux Blend pairs well with a variety of foods, including:

• Red Meat
• Lamb
• Game Meat
• Cheese
• Dark Chocolate

The tannins and acidity in Bordeaux Blend make it an excellent pairing for rich, fatty meats. The strong flavors of the wine can also complement the complex flavors of aged cheese and dark chocolate.

The Potential of Petit Verdot for a Perfect Bordeaux Blend

Petit Verdot is a difficult grape to grow, but it can add depth, structure, and tannins to the wine when used in small percentages. Many winemakers believe that Petit Verdot is the secret to achieving a perfect Bordeaux Blend, as it can add complexity and depth to the wine. However, the exact proportions and methods used in the blend can vary significantly, and ultimately it comes down to the winemaker’s skill and vision.

Overall, Bordeaux Blend is a highly regarded and beloved wine blend, and Petit Verdot can play an important role in creating the perfect blend. Whether you are a winemaker or a wine lover, exploring the unique flavors and characteristics of each grape in the blend can lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation of this timeless classic.

FAQs

Q: What is Bordeaux Blend?

A: Bordeaux Blend is a wine blend that originated from the Bordeaux region of France. It typically consists of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and occasionally Malbec or Petit Verdot.

Q: Is Petit Verdot an essential component of Bordeaux Blend?

A: While all four grapes in Bordeaux Blend are considered essential components, Petit Verdot is still not commonly used in the blend and is typically only used in small amounts (1-5%). However, some winemakers have been increasing the percentage to 10-20% to create a more intense and full-bodied wine.

Q: What flavors does Petit Verdot add to Bordeaux Blend?

A: Petit Verdot can add notes of spice, blackberry, and violet to the wine, as well as a hint of pencil lead or graphite. It can also add tannins to the wine, which can give it a longer aging potential.

Q: What foods pair well with Bordeaux Blend?

A: Bordeaux Blend pairs well with a variety of foods, including red meat, lamb, game meat, cheese, and dark chocolate.

Q: What is the aging potential of Bordeaux Blend?

A: Bordeaux Blend has a long aging potential, with some wines able to age for decades or even a century if stored properly.