French Red Wine for beginners: where to start?
If you’re new to French red wine, you might feel overwhelmed by the names, regions, and labels. But here’s the good news: you don’t need to be an expert to enjoy Bordeaux, just curious.
At Château Canon Chaigneau, we believe wine should be both elegant and approachable.
What makes Bordeaux special?
When people hear “Bordeaux,” they often imagine one uniform style, but the truth is, Bordeaux is a mosaic of regions, soils, microclimates, and philosophies.
While Bordeaux reds are typically blends, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, sometimes Malbec (Pressac), what they taste like depends hugely on where they come from and who makes them.
In Lalande-de-Pomerol, where Château Canon Chaigneau is located, we benefit from:
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Clay-limestone soils that give freshness and depth
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A climate that ripens Merlot beautifully, supported by Cabernet Franc and Pressac
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A winemaking philosophy centered on balance and precision, not power or oak
So yes, Bordeaux offers ripe red and black fruits, balanced acidity, and fine tannins, but not all Bordeaux wines are the same.
Each château, each vineyard, and each vintage tells its own story.
At Canon Chaigneau, we focus on making wines that are elegant, authentic, and expressive of our land, not just of a category.
Where to begin at Canon Chaigneau
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Cuve 8a 2020 → A fresh, unoaked red, pure fruit and smooth texture.
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Grand Vin 2018 → More depth and complexity, with soft oak notes.
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Discovery Case → Six vintages, six expressions, from youthful energy to mature elegance.
And if you’re hosting? Try a magnum, perfect for sharing and sure to impress, without the complexity of choosing multiple bottles.
Our Advice
Start with what excites you.
Pair it with a simple meal.
And most importantly, taste with an open mind.
French red wine isn’t about rules. It’s about pleasure.