Bordeaux Pt 1 - Introduction Flashcards
What are the two sides to Bordeaux wines?
The famous classified growths and the everyday quality wines made by the less famous chateaux and negociants.
What impact did the marriage of Eleanor of Aquitaine and Henry Plantagenet have on the wine industry of Bordeaux?
They controlled the western part of France and he established economic ties with England which lasted 300 years and sold lots of wine.
How did wine production in Bordeaux differ from other wine regions in the Middle Ages?
The wine industry was secular and commercial unlike other regions were the church dominated.
Why did the French Revolution impact Bordeaux wine industry less than others?
The estates were already privately held and not by the church.
How did Napoleon’s Code of inheritance impact Bordeaux?
Unlike Bourgogne, the vineyards were allotted as shares and not physically broken down between family members. This maintained their commercial viability.
What environmental initiatives have CIVB initiated since 2010 for Bordeaux winegrowers and producers?
They initiated :
1.a region wide approach to sustainability;
2. a climate action plan to reduce carbon footprint, energy consumption and reduce water usage.
How has Bordeaux implemented the environmental changes?
- They are codified into law and AOC regulations;
- They have petitioned for new varieties to mitigate climate change.
What % of Bordeaux wine growing area is working towards environmental improvements?
60% is working towards biodynamic, organic and environmental certification to promote biodiversity and reduce agrochemical use.
What is the size of the Bordeaux area under vine.
273,800 acres/110,800 Ha,
What is Bordeaux annual production?
553 million bottles/ 4.15 million hectolitres. (2019)
Why is there increasing demand for second and third label Bordeaux wines and “petit chateaux”?
The Bordeaux futures market has declined due to overpricing making these labels more attractive value for money.
What is Bordeaux production capacity?
5,600 estates, 300 merchants,72 brokers, 29 co-ops, 3 co-op unions.
How much of Bordeaux wine is exported per annum?
44% of which most is high-end Bordeaux.
How much of Bordeaux growers belong to co-ops/unions?
44% of 5,600 growers. They bottle 23% of Bordeaux harvest.
How are most of Bordeaux Grand Vins sold?
On the futures market, while still in barrel. Usually at lower than eventual final release price.
