Cotes de Bourg

Côtes de Bourg is a bucolic Bordeaux wine appellation on the Right Bank, where the Dordogne and Garonne meet, lying between the Côtes de Blaye and Fronsac . The location of the port and the hills behind made it an important strategic location in Plantagenet times, and the vineyards are actually longer-established than those of the Médoc. Currently there are around 3,500 hectares in production, the source of hearty, rustic reds – with a limited amount of white wine.

The varied soils are very productive, with the ensuing dangers of high yields and green, unripe flavours in the wines following early harvesting. Where these issues are addressed, good wines can be made, often representing good value for money. Merlot is the predominant grape, although Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and even Malbec can be important, according to soil type.