Graves

Overview

As with Bordeaux in general, delicious red wines characterize the appellation of Graves. However, the reds of Graves are smoother and fruitier than others in Bordeaux, as the blend contains a larger proportion of Merlot. Graves is also home to the region’s most fantastic white wines made from Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. While the Médoc appellations are pure red wine regions, whites from Graves are of top quality and do bear its name on their labels.

The best wines, both red and white, are produced in a sub-appellation called Pessac-Léognan. One chateau in particular, Chateau Haut-Brion, has been so good for so long that it was classified as a premier cru in 1855. Haut-Brion has been American owned since 1935 and consistently produces stellar reds from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, and a delicious white wine blend of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc.

Geography

The boundaries of Graves begin at the outskirts of Bordeaux and stretch over 30 miles to the south on the left bank of the Garonne River.

Temperature

The climate of this appellation is mild year round, with maritime influences moderated by a thick forest along the Atlantic coast. These trees serve to disperse detrimental cold ocean breezes that would otherwise reach the vineyards. Summers are warm, but rain is not unusual during harvests, making vintages vary in extensively in quality.

Topography

Graves is quite hilly, with many small, steep valleys cut out by the myriad of small rivers and creeks. Some vineyards are quite steep.

Terroir

The soil in Graves is different than that found in most of the Bordeaux sub-regions. Rather, it’s extremely gravelly, with large pebbles and stones overlaying a base of clay, sand, and some limestone.

Important Varietals

Merlot
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Franc
Sauvignon Blanc
Semillon