The Changing Climate of Bordeaux Wine Grapes

Another Forks & Corks Food and Wine Festival has come and gone, and I'm still thinking about Bordeaux two weeks later. Why? The answer lies in the complex and delicate balance of factors that contribute to the unique flavors of Bordeaux wine grapes. From the terroir of the region to the grape varietals used in production, Bordeaux wines are renowned for their quality and complexity.

However, extreme weather and changing consumer habits are hitting Bordeaux wine in a way that it is no longer viable for some producers to keep their vineyards. An analysis has found that Bordeaux wines made in years with wet winters and hot, dry summers – which are becoming more common as a result of climate change – tend to have a higher quality and more intense flavor profile. This presents both opportunities and challenges for Bordeaux winemakers as they navigate the evolving landscape of the industry.

Bordeaux's grapes will benefit from warmer, drier summers. But if extreme heat leads to droughts, this top wine producer's future may be at risk. Red wine consumption in France has declined substantially in recent decades, in favor of beer and other beverages. This shift in consumer preferences has forced Bordeaux winemakers to adapt and innovate in order to remain competitive in the market.

Vineyards in Bordeaux are being decimated by mildew, which is largely affecting Merlot and Cabernet grapes. This devastating disease is threatening the livelihood of many grape growers in the region, leading to decreased yields and lower quality grapes. It's harvest time again for most of Europe's wine growing regions and grapes are being picked from the UK in the north to Sicily in the south.

In France's southern Bordeaux region, the grape harvest is often now done at night to ensure the peak freshness required to obtain the best flavors in the final product. Saturday February 17, 2024: Good things come to those who wait… We pair some of the best Bordeaux of the last two decades with the best beef, creating a perfect pairing that highlights the unique characteristics of Bordeaux wine grapes.