05/29/2026
The French wine region of Bordeaux, perhaps the most famous wine region in the world, is known for its big, bold red blends of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cab Franc (as well as Petit Verdot, Malbec, and Carménère).
Bordeaux’s most defining geographic feature, the Gironde estuary, formed by the Garonne and Dordogne rivers, splits the region in two and is the key to the area’s fame. This watery divide creates different soils on either side and results in vastly different wines.
To the west and south of the Garonne River is Medoc, or Left Bank, where the mostly gravel soil drains well and retains warmth, creating the perfect terroir for Cabernet Sauvignon. Left Bank wines are powerful, full of complexity, structure and tannins. These are the wines you lay down in your cellar for some much-needed rest before drinking.
As opposed to the vast vineyards and gilded Chateaux of the Left Bank, the Right Bank’s land was full of smaller plots planted by family farmers and monks along the hillsides, creating a patchwork of small vineyards that remain intact to this day.
Saturday, May 30 we’ll be comparing Left versus Right Bank wines at our weekly Saturday wine tasting. Stop by to see which Bank you favor. It’s OK to like both!
🕐 tasting starts at 1pm
📍10677 Main Street in Bellevue
