If you don’t mind mixed metaphors, you could call Bordeaux the world’s breadbasket of wine. It’s the leading grower of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, Merlot grapes, and Cabernet Franc grapes (providing 33%, 32%, and 18% respectively of worldwide supply). And since they’ve been tending vineyards and making wine for, oh, the past 1900 years or so, the locals have gotten pretty darn good at it.

Yes, prestigious chateaus like Lafite-Rothschild and Pétrus have elevated Bordeaux to rockstar status. But the region’s other 10,000 wineries also benefit from the temperate Atlantic Ocean-influenced climate (perfect for ripening grapes), the gravelly soils (allowing for good drainage away from the roots), and the easily accessible water table (thanks to the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers, which feed into the Gironde Estuary). In fact, “Bordeaux” derives from the French phrase “au bord de l’eau,” meaning “alongside the water.”

This happy confluence of growing conditions means you can find delicious wines exhibiting classic Bordeaux character yet at value-oriented prices. We know, because we did it. And from Bastille Day (July 14th) through the end of August, we’ll be sharing these finds with you in our daily tastings and special events. Join us and see why, when you want balanced French blends with rich flavors, good structure, and an edge of minerality—it’s Gotta Be Bordeaux.

Special Events (see the events calendar page for details)

July 14 – 5 o’clock Flight featuring 3 Bordeaux reds, ranging from soft and fruit-forward to firm and oaky

July 22 – Wine Bar Food at Home: a cooking demo and wine pairing featuring regional French foods and Bordeaux wines

August 5 – WineSavvy: Get to Know Bordeaux: an educational tasting covering the grapes, classifications, and history of the region

August 14 – Left, Right and Center: a tasting of higher end wines from both sides of the Gironde, as well as Entre-deux-Mers