Miami Wine-2001, 2003, 2004 & 2005 Bordeaux Tasting

Bordeaux is the largest fine wine-making region in the world, as well as the most legendary. It was geographically predestined to produce the world's finest wines. The region has an ideal climate-moderated by the Gulf Stream, tempered by the Atlantic Ocean, with the tallest sand dunes in Europe and the forest of the Landes providing a natural wind barrier protecting the vineyards. The great diversity of microclimates and soils (clay, gravel, chalk, limestone) are ideally suited to Bordeaux's different grape varieties, which include Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot-the red grape "trio" blended to make up a Bordeaux. Secondary authorized grape varieties used for blending red wines are Malbec for color and body, Petit Verdot for color, tannins and high acidity, and Carmenere for color. It is the subtle blending of different grapes that gives Bordeaux wines their balance, refinement and character.