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Right Bank

Bordeaux

The Merlot-dominated right bank of Bordeaux, centered around the medieval town of Saint-Émilion and the tiny plateau of Pomerol. The clay and limestone soils here produce wines of richness and generosity, from the approachable satellites to the most sought-after estates in the world.

The wines of Right Bank are made primarily from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc and other Bordeaux varieties.

Vineyard Map

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Nearby Appellations

To the west Côtes & Entre-deux-Mers

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Terroir & Classification

Soils

ClayLimestoneGravelSand

The Right Bank sits on Oligocene limestone bedrock overlaid with varying depths of clay, creating excellent water retention while allowing deep root penetration through limestone fissures. The proximity to the Dordogne River maintains a higher water table, and the clay-limestone mix provides natural drainage regulation that prevents both waterlogging and excessive drought stress.

Classification

Right Bank Classifications: The Right Bank has no single classification system. Saint-Émilion has its own classification, reviewed roughly every ten years (most recently in 2022), making it the only major Bordeaux classification that evolves.

Elevation

20-110m, gentle south and southeast-facing slopes

Microclimate

The Dordogne River and Isle River create a moderating maritime influence with higher humidity and more stable temperatures than the Left Bank. The clay soils retain heat longer into the evening, creating ideal ripening conditions for Merlot while the eastern position receives beneficial morning sun exposure.

Typical Aromas

dark plumchocolatevioletstrufflecedarblackberry

Right Bank Classifications

The Right Bank has no single classification system. Saint-Émilion has its own classification, reviewed roughly every ten years (most recently in 2022), making it the only major Bordeaux classification that evolves. Pomerol, home to Château Pétrus and Le Pin, has famously never had an official classification.

Saint-Émilion: Premier Grand Cru Classé A

The pinnacle. Currently Château Figeac and Château Pavie. Château Ausone and Château Chéval Blanc withdrew from the classification.

Saint-Émilion: Premier Grand Cru Classé B

Twelve estates including Château Canon, Château Bélair-Monange, and Château Troplong-Mondot.

Saint-Émilion: Grand Cru Classé

Over 70 estates representing the backbone of quality Saint-Émilion production.

Pomerol

No official classification. Quality and reputation are established entirely by market reputation and critical consensus.

Grapes of Bordeaux

Cabernet Sauvignon

red
Body
Tannins
Sweetness
Acidity
blackcurrantgreen bell peppermintcedar

Thick-skinned, naturally tannic grape. Blended with Merlot and Cabernet Franc in Bordeaux; made as single varietal in New World regions.

Merlot

red
Body
Tannins
Sweetness
Acidity
plumblackberrystrawberryherbs

Dominant variety

Sauvignon Blanc

white
Body
Sweetness
Acidity
grassasparagusgooseberrypassion fruit

Highly aromatic and assertively herbaceous. Almost always made unoaked and drunk young. Blended with Sémillon in Bordeaux; single varietal in Marlborough and Loire.

Sémillon

white
Body
Sweetness
Acidity
applelemongrasswax

Thin-skinned grape highly susceptible to botrytis. Dry styles can be made unoaked (Hunter Valley) or oaked; blended with Sauvignon Blanc in Bordeaux for both dry wines and Sauternes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Right Bank known for?▼
Right Bank is known for its Merlot-dominated wines from the prestigious appellations of Saint-Émilion and Pomerol. It's home to some of the world's most sought-after estates, producing wines of exceptional richness and generosity from clay and limestone soils.
What does Right Bank wine taste like?▼
Right Bank wines are characterized by their richness, generosity, and approachable style. The Merlot-based blends offer plush fruit flavors, velvety textures, and elegant complexity that can range from accessible satellite wines to ultra-premium expressions.
What grapes are grown in Right Bank?▼
Right Bank is dominated by Merlot as the primary grape variety. Cabernet Franc serves as an important secondary grape, with small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon also grown in the region.
What makes Right Bank different from its neighbors?▼
Right Bank differs from Left Bank through its Merlot-dominated plantings versus Cabernet Sauvignon dominance across the river. The clay and limestone soils here produce softer, more approachable wines compared to the structured, tannic profile typical of Left Bank estates.
What soil types are found in Right Bank?▼
Right Bank features diverse soils including clay, limestone, gravel, and sand. The clay and limestone soils are particularly significant, as they provide excellent conditions for Merlot cultivation and contribute to the region's characteristic wine richness.

Map data: INAO