The Médoc region, famed for its rich tradition of red wine, is embarking on an exciting new chapter by introducing white wine production.
This groundbreaking move comes after the INAO, the French authority governing wine classifications, announced that the long-established Médoc appellation will now extend to include the production of white wines.
Transitioning to White Wines
This transition has been in the works for several years.
Previously, any white wines crafted in this prominent area of the Left Bank could only be labeled under the broader Bordeaux designation due to restrictions on Médoc’s classifications.
Currently, the proposed changes to the appellation are in the appeals process, a procedure expected to unfold over the next two months.
If no major objections are raised, the first Médoc white wines could hit the market later this year.
Producers and Regulations
Around 100 hectares (approximately 250 acres) in the Médoc are anticipated to meet the criteria for the new Médoc blanc designation.
However, the actual area planted with white grape varieties is thought to be about double that size, with roughly half not qualifying for this new classification.
Claude Gaudin, who leads the association representing producers from Médoc, Haut-Médoc, and Listrac-Médoc, expressed optimism that this change will help their wines—priced between €12 and €25—stand apart from the more generic Bordeaux label they have traditionally been associated with.
Several prestigious wineries are ready to embrace the new Médoc appellation.
This includes notable names like Pavillon Blanc from Château Margaux, Mouton-Rothschild’s Aile d’Argent, and the white wine from Cos d’Estournel.
These producers are expected to align with the new standards for Médoc blanc, which stipulate a minimum maturation period of six months in oak barrels, making oak contribute at least 30% of the final blend.
A Historical Perspective
Hélène Larrieu, director of the ODG, emphasized how the region’s maritime climate imparts a notable salinity to the wines, helped by the structural backbone provided by oak tannins.
Without this integration of wood, the intricate aromas characteristic of these wines might not fully blossom.
There were initial thoughts of including a wider array of grape varieties such as Chenin Blanc, Gros Manseng, Viognier, and Chardonnay in the new regulations.
Ultimately, the guidelines maintain focus on the established Bordeaux varieties: Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Muscadelle, and Sauvignon Gris, while allowing for as much as 15% to consist of experimental white varieties recognized within the Bordeaux region.
Chardonnay has been designated as a secondary variety for Médoc blanc, permitted to account for up to 15% of the final blend.
This reflects its relatively minor presence, comprising only about 5% of the white grapes planted in the area.
At first, the Médoc blanc label was restricted to wines aged and bottled on-site.
However, updated regulations now allow merchants to buy grapes or wine after the required minimum aging of six months at the estate where it was produced.
Wine writer and expert Jane Anson, based in Bordeaux, has shared insights on the historical significance of white wines in the Médoc, especially in regions with limestone soils and maritime influences.
Although there’s robust competition from other established names in the Bordeaux blanc scene, she believes that over time, some producers might opt to use the new Médoc designation, though this may not happen immediately.
The roots of white wine production in the Médoc date back to the 18th century, particularly in the region of Blanquefort, located near northern Bordeaux.
By the early 20th century, the classification known as “Graves de Blanquefort” had emerged, highlighting the area’s unique contributions to the wine landscape.
Source: Wine-searcher
