Bordeaux Right Bank

The vineyard lands on the Right Bank of the Bordeaux region are renowned for their unique terroir. The soil composition combines red clay, gravel, and limestone, which imparts a distinct flavor profile to the wine. Despite being a flat region, the area experiences low rainfall, making it ideal for growing grapes. Summers are hot, which helps ripen the grapes, but frost is a common problem that can damage the vines and lead to low yields.

The Chateaux on the Right Bank is known for producing some of the world's finest red Bordeaux wine styles. These wines are characterized by their complexity, low tannin levels, and mild acidity, which makes them highly sought after by wine enthusiasts. The intense dark fruit flavors of black currant, plum, and blackberry, along with hints of licorice, chocolate, and spice, make Right Bank wine a unique and delightful experience for the palate.

The best vintages of Right Bank wine are highly prized and sought after by collectors and connoisseurs alike. These exceptional vintages are known for their unique characteristics, flavor profile, and ability to age gracefully, making them treasured among wine collectors. Some of the most outstanding vintages include 2020, 2018, 2015, 2010, 2008, 2000, 1990, 1998, 1995, 1988, 1970 and 1961.

In 1855, the Medoc Classification system categorized chateaux in Bordeaux's left bank as first, second, third, fourth, or fifth growths. However, a similar system existed for suitable bank properties when the Saint Emilion Classification was established in 1955. Pomerol, another prominent right bank area, still needs a formal classification system.

Unlike the Medoc Classification, which is fixed, Saint Emilion's system updates every decade or so and evaluates chateaux based on wine tastings of their previous ten vintages. Chateaux must apply for inclusion, and there are two categories: Premier Grand Cru Classe (which has tiers 'A' and 'B') and Grand Cru Classe. However, the similar names of the two categories can confuse, and tiers A and B are not commonly used.

Currently, there are four Premier Grand Cru Classe 'A' estates (Chateau Angelus, Chateau Ausone, Château Cheval Blanc, and Chateau Pavie), 14 Premier Grand Cru Classe 'B' estates, and 64 Grand Cru Classe estates.