Is Bordeaux wine a claret?

Claret is a British term used, unofficially, in reference to red Bordeaux wine. The red wines of Bordeaux are blends, mostly based on Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The term “claret” is sometimes used—unofficially, of course—to refer to Bordeaux-style red wines produced elsewhere, such as the United States.

Why is Bordeaux wine called claret?

Before “claret” was the nickname for Bordeaux wines, it meant “clear,” “pale” or “light-colored” wine (“claret” being derived from the Latin word for “clear”). This is back in the 14th and 15th centuries, when wines from Bordeaux were actually paler, almost like rosés.

What is the difference between claret and Burgundy?

The colour Burgundy itself is similar to other shades of dark red such as maroon and claret also a wine name so therefore it is often called wine red, or simply wine. Burgundy , claret or sangria have a major resemblance to dark carmine, crimson and many other dark reds.

Is a Bordeaux the same as a Burgundy?

Burgundy and Bordeaux are both regions in France, and these terms also refer to wines made in those regions. Bordeaux is best known for its reds, Cabernet Sauvignon- and Merlot-based wines, blended with support from Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Burgundy is known equally for its white and red wines.

Is Burgundy or Bordeaux more expensive?

It’s often assumed that Bordeaux is a beginner’s French wine, but this really couldn’t be further from the truth. Sure, great value in Bordeaux can be found far more easily than in Burgundy, where bottles can be exceptionally expensive.

Why is Bordeaux wine so expensive?

Of course, one of the key reasons why Bordeaux is so prized around the world is due to its aging potential. All of the red wines of Bordeaux will be aged in traditional barrels before bottling, but thanks to the emphasis on the tannic Cabernet Sauvignon grape, they are perfect for aging in the bottle.

How long should a Bordeaux age?

High-quality Bordeaux should be aged for at least 10 years but normally reach their peak in the 15-20 year range. More mass-produced Bordeaux wines should be drunk much sooner, after about 5 years of aging.

What does claret go with?

Roasted veg with hearty mushrooms like Portabello and grated Parmesan make a great pairing for both Merlot and Cabernet-based Claret. If you like to go out when it is the season for mushroom-hunting, try a wild-mushroom cream sauce sautéed with onions and garlic and a touch of butter over pasta with some Claret.

Is Shiraz the same as claret?

Australia eventually ‘borrowed’ the term claret to describe blends of Cabernet and Shiraz, the combination favoured by the Australian wine collective (growers, makers and consumers) for more than two centuries.