Haut Médoc Bordeaux Red Wine

The wines of Haut-Médoc, located on the left bank of the Gironde River, are one of the Médoc appellations, along with Margaux and Saint-Estèphe. These red wines are made primarily from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot grape varieties.

Characteristics of Haut-Médoc wines

They are distinguished by their aromatic palette of red and black fruits, with a hint of vegetal notes. The palate is structured and strongly characterized by Cabernet Sauvignon, but also by a beautiful minerality on the palate, which is brought by a terroir composed of gravelly and clay-limestone soils.

What is the difference between Médoc and Haut-Médoc ?

The "Médoc" and "Haut-Médoc" appellations designate specific wine-growing areas in the Bordeaux region, each with its own characteristics and geographical boundaries.

Médoc: This is a broader appellation that covers a large part of the Médoc peninsula, located on the left bank of the Gironde River. It covers a fairly large area and includes wines produced under a variety of conditions. Wines from the Médoc appellation are generally more accessible and can provide a good introduction to Bordeaux wines.

Haut-Médoc: This appellation is a sub-region of the Médoc, located further south and closer to the city of Bordeaux. The term "Haut" (which means "high" in French) refers to the higher geographical position above sea level, as well as the superior quality of the wines produced in this area. Haut-Médoc wines are often considered to be of higher quality due to the better-drained soils and more favorable exposure of the vines. This appellation also includes several renowned communes such as Saint-Estèphe, Pauillac, Saint-Julien, and Margaux, which have their own specific appellations.