We’re diving into the Lea & Sandeman cellars to find the perfect wines for your glass this summer.
Chances are, if you’re thinking about buying Bordeaux at the moment, you’re probably planning to open it in 5-10 years’ time. Or at least squirreling a bottle away ‘for a rainy day’, when temperatures have dropped and rich reds seem all the more appealing for it. However, more immediate drinking pleasure can be found in the often-overlooked Bordeaux whites.
White Bordeaux wines are typically blends made from a combination of Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and sometimes Muscadelle. Sauvignon Blanc provides vibrant citrus and herbaceous aromas, while Sémillon adds body, richness, and a touch of honeyed character. The Muscadelle grape can contribute floral and exotic fruit notes to the blend. These grapes benefit from Bordeaux’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Gironde estuary; the combination of cool maritime breezes and ample sunshine allows grapes to fully ripen whilst retain a balancing acidity, essential for a refreshing summer wine.
In terms of style, white Bordeaux wines can vary from lively and fresh to rich and creamy. Wines with a higher percentage of Sémillon and aged or fermented in oak barrels tend to exhibit a fuller body and a luscious texture, often accompanied by notes of honey, almond, and ripe stone fruits. On the other hand, wines with a higher proportion of Sauvignon Blanc maintain freshness, boasting zesty citrus flavours, herbaceous notes, and a bright, mouthwatering acidity.
The best part? White Bordeaux wines often provide incredible value for their quality. While red Bordeaux wines may come with a higher price tag due to their aging potential, white Bordeaux wines offer an opportunity to explore the region’s terroir and craftsmanship at a more accessible price point.
We’ve pulled out a couple of excellent examples from the Lea & Sandeman range that are calling out to be drunk in the sunshine: the crisp and lively Château Beaumont Blanc ‘Les Pierrières’ Blaye and the elegant and expressive Le G de Guiraud Bordeaux Blanc from Château Guiraud.
It is also worth noting that our shops often have a range of fine white Bordeaux by the odd bottle that may not be available on the website. For example, at the time of writing, the Chelsea shop has 2004 Pavillon Blanc de Château Margaux, 2016 Smith Haut Lafitte, 2010 Domaine de Chevalier, 2018 Blanc de Lynch Bages, 2015 Château Carbonnieux and 2018 Arums de Lagrange.
2021 CHÂTEAU BEAUMONT Blanc ‘Les Pierrières’ Blaye
£13.95 | £12.50
This is fast becoming one of the most popular white wines at L&S. As ever M. Filliatreau gives his white around six week in the barrels that will be used for the red once that is ready to come out of its fermentation vats. A canny use of resources that adds real class to this well-priced white Bordeaux. Pineapple and grapefruit on the nose along with a hint of vanilla. On the palate, the texture takes over. The juice is dense with good focus and energy. There is bags of flavour and character. A real charmer that continues to offer amazing value for money.
Pair it with grilled fish, fresh salads, or goat cheese.
2021 LE G DE GUIRAUD Bordeaux Blanc Château Guiraud
£21.95 | £19.95
Produced by one of Sauternes’ most prestigious estates ,Le G de Guiraud Bordeaux Blanc is crafted primarily from Sauvignon Blanc, with a touch of Sémillon.
‘It offers light Granny Smith apple and light petrichor scents on the nose. The palate is well balanced with good concentration and lightly spiced, leading to a cohesive finish.’ – Neal Martin, Vinous
Pair with seafood, poultry, or creamy cheeses.