A Blueprint for Reds on the Market

When it comes to being a trendsetter, Bordeaux’s credentials are undisputed. The iconic Bordeaux red blend is the blueprint for many of today’s newer wines on the market. When analyzing consumers’ affection for “the blend,” almost all roads lead to Bordeaux red wine.

According to the BevAlc Insights’ 2H 2020 Red Blends Forecast, “Red blends have become a customer staple, besting many traditional varietal wines.” The forecast also states that “red blends have accounted for 4.25 percent share of wine sales so far this year, up slightly from 2019, and they have accounted for 11 percent of total red wine share — the same as last year.”

Why Do Bordeaux Red Blends Appeal to Wine Lovers?

Laura Williamson, Master Sommelier, provides a compelling answer: “With unfussy blends trending up across younger consumers, Bordeaux is driving this surge. Moreover, Bordeaux red wines remain relevant and pivotal today, thanks to their new, modern style. The fresh, vibrant and juicy persona of these blends immediately wows customers.”

“Bordeaux has a unique position in the way that it responds very acutely to the market, in many cases setting the market. With the number of quality producers and a run of great vintages, there is a huge volume of excellent Bordeaux red wine on the market at the moment,” says Torrey Grant, Adjunct Professor of Wine Studies at Syracuse University and Retail Consultant & Educator for Wegmans Food Markets.

Indeed, Bordeaux is a classic region that embraces innovation. One example of this innovation is how some Bordeaux red wine producers are utilizing alternative aging vessels, including stainless steel, amphora, and concrete. The result? More modern, supple and fruity styles of the red blend, with natural micro-oxygenation and less oak influence. Sulfite-free and vegan wines coming from Bordeaux also appeal to modern tastes.

Discovery & Affordability

From fresh and fruit-forward to rich and complex, there’s a Bordeaux red blend that appeals to every palate. And, many of these wines are affordably priced at less than $40.

Edward Field, Founder & Owner of Natural Merchants, Inc. believes that accessibly-priced Bordeaux blends are inspiring consumers to delve even deeper into the category: “Bordeaux has become a new area of discovery. Affordable, Bordeaux red wines are the gateway for many consumers to discover the wonders of this AOC.  We focus on exciting, new categories as well, like 100% Malbec and organic.”

With its impressive array of authentic and well-crafted wine styles at friendly price points, Bordeaux is destined to remain a staple for consumers beguiled by “the blend.”

To learn more about the red wines of Bordeaux, watch the webinar:
Bordeaux — The New Red

This webinar is part of the How the Experts Tackle Bordeaux virtual learning series.

Note:
Article written by Wanda Mann, CSW and Founder of Wine With Wanda.