Bordeaux

Comprehensive appellation in the Bordeaux wine-growing region in France applied to light-coloured red wines. It is not often used in practice today. In medieval times, Clairet was the synonym for Bordeaux wines in general, and huge volumes were exported to England. The wine is made by keeping the skins on the must for only a short time. The following varieties are permitted: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Carmenère, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot. These wines have a slightly deeper colour than a Bordeaux Rosé. Bordeaux Supèrieur Clairet is also made, with a slightly higher minimum alcohol content. Well-known producers include Château Bellevue la Mongie, Château du Grand Moueys, Château Penin, Château Piote-Aubrion, Premius Clairet, Château Roquebert, Château le Trébuchet and Les Vignerons de Saint-Martin.