The Lett Bank Bordeux

Question 1

Many of Bordeaux’s finest red wines are produced in the Haut Médoc.

Identify THREE
Appellation Controlées within the Haut-Médoc which are associated with premium quality
wines

Answer 1

Margaux, Pauillac and Saint-Estèphe

Question 2

Briefly describe the climate in the Haut-Médoc and how it affects grape ripening (4 marks)

Answer 2

The climate in the Haut-Médoc is moderate maritime. The warming ocean current called
the Gulf stream extends the growing season. But the Atlantic brings high levels of rainfall
and humidity which disrupt flowering and fruit set and promote rot and dilute grapes

Question 3

Explain why the climate in Bordeux makes the option to blend different grape varieties important (3
marks)

Answer 3

This climate causes Bordeaux to have significant vintage variation, so it is risky to rely on
one grape variety.

As different varieties flower and ripen at different times blending can
provide insurance against bad weather events.

Having different varieties gives options to adjust the style depending on that year

Question 4

What is the dominant soil type in Pessac-Léognan and why is it particularly suited to
Cabernet Sauvignon? (2 marks)

Answer 4

Pessac-Léognan has gravel soils which raises the temperature in the vineyard so Cabernet
Sauvignon can ripen reliably

Question 5

a. Why would this wine be sold at a premium price point? (4 marks)
Cos D Estournel-Saint Estephe
Grand Cru Classe

Answer 5

a. This wine is classified as a “Grand Cru Class” which means it is ranked as one of the best estates in Bordeaux.

Question 6

b. What is likely to be the main grape variety in this wine? (1 mark)
Cos D Estournel-Saint Estephe

Answer 6

b. Cabernet Sauvignon

Question 7

c. As this wine is produced a moderate climate, this grape may struggle to ripen fully -what affect could this have on the wine? (2 marks)
Cos D Estournel-Saint Estephe

Answer 7

c. It could produce astringent tannin and herbaceous flavours

Question 8

d. Describe the wine (5 marks)
Cos D Estournel-Saint Estephe
Grand Cru Classe

Answer 8

This wine will have a core of black fruit, black current and black cherry complimented by
cedar/cigar notes from oak ageing. They are wines market with grippy tannin in their youth
that are soften allowing the flavours to become more expressive.