Entre-Deux-Mers region
Entre-Deux-Mers, one of the 6 wine-making regions of the Bordeaux vineyard, derives its name from its geographical location “between two seas,” nestled between the Dordogne and Garonne Rivers.
This triangular tableland is characterized by rolling hills, small valleys, meadows, and forests, intersected by numerous brooks and rivers.
While vineyards spread on the slopes of Entre-Deux-Mers, the region differs from the rest of Bordeaux in that it is not solely dedicated to viticulture. In fact, a significant portion of agricultural production in the area is devoted to cereals and orchards.
The history of wine-making in Entre-Deux-Mers dates back two millennia, with the Romans planting vineyards in the region. During the Middle Ages, monks played a crucial role in further developing wine-making practices in the area.
Entre-Deux-Mers was indeed situated along the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela, contributing to its cultural significance and wine production heritage.
Entre-Deux-Mers – 12 AOC-AOP
The Entre-Deux-Mers wines boast 12 AOC-AOP:
Bordeaux, Bordeaux Supérieur, Cadillac, Côtes de Bordeaux, Côtes de Bordeaux-Saint-Macaire, Crémant de Bordeaux, Entre-deux-Mers, Graves de Vayres, Loupiac, Pemières Côtes de Bordeaux, Sainte-Croix-du-Mont and Sainte-Foy-Bordeaux
And 2 IGP: Atlantique and Périgord
Entre-Deux-Mers characteristics
The Entre-deux-Mers region boasts a diverse range of soils, including limestone, clay, clay-limestone, silica, compact sand, alluvium, and gravel. This varied terroir contributes to the production of a wide selection of vibrant, fruity, and well-balanced wines.
Historically, Entre-Deux-Mers wines were predominantly sweet, and even very sweet, white wines until the 1950s. However, a decree of control, championed by local winegrowers’ associations, ushered in a new era for wine-making in the region. This led to a restructuring of vineyards, with many growers transitioning from white to red grape varieties and implementing improved cultivation and wine-making techniques.
White wine production underwent significant changes, with regulations establishing a maximum residual sugar level of 4g per liter. This re-conversion from red to white wines has been met with success, with red wine production slightly surpassing that of white in recent years. The past 15 years have seen a marked improvement in production quality and a clearer product identity.
Wines from Entre-deux-Mers are typically bottled at the property or château, with the average vineyard spanning approximately 20 hectares. While only white wines have been granted the AOC Entre-Deux-Mers designation thus far, the conversion from white to red wines has been noteworthy.
Entre-Deux-Mers white wines are renowned for their delicious flavors, excellent value for money, and subtle, fresh, and fruity characteristics. With a delicate pale color and fine bouquet, these wines are best enjoyed young and served chilled at around 8°C, ideally paired with seafood or desserts. Entre-Deux-Mers reds have been granted the Bordeaux and Bordeaux Supérieur appellations.
Cadillac
Cadillac is not just the name of a luxury car, it’s also the name of a delightful mellow white wine produced in the premier vineyard plots of the Premières Côtes de Bordeaux.
Situated in a location particularly conducive to the development of Noble Rot, Cadillac wine boasts a golden hue that deepens to amber with age.
This structured wine offers a complex palate with dense aromas of candied fruit and flowers, making for a truly indulgent drinking experience. With a capacity to age gracefully for at least 10 years, Cadillac wine is best served alongside foie gras, complementing its richness and depth.
Don’t be alarmed if you notice whitish crystals or “gravelle” forming at the bottom of the bottle—this is a natural occurrence caused by the crystallization of tartaric acid, which is common in wines of this type.
Offering exceptional value for money, Cadillac is a genuine moelleux Bordeaux that promises both quality and affordability, making it a beloved choice among wine enthusiasts.
Côtes de Bordeaux Saint-Macaire
Côtes de Bordeaux Saint-Macaire is a picturesque 50-hectare vineyard situated to the north of Langon. The terroir yields a diverse range of wines, including dry, soft, and sweet whites predominantly crafted from the Sémillon grape variety, often complemented by Muscadelle.
The dry white wines from this region are characterized by their lively, straightforward nature and balanced profiles. These wines offer a refreshing and approachable drinking experience, perfect for everyday enjoyment.
On the sweeter side, the moelleux wines are crafted from grapes affected by the Noble Rot, resulting in a delightful sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the wine’s inherent fruitiness. These sweet wines are best paired with indulgent dishes such as foie gras and desserts, where their richness and complexity can truly shine.
Graves de Vayre
The Graves de Vayre wines hail from the south bank of the Dordogne River, nestled between the towns of Libourne and Bordeaux. Spanning an expansive 650 hectares, the vineyards of Graves de Vayre flourish in gravelly soils, known locally as “graves,” and produce both red and dry white wines.
The red wines from this region are characterized by their garnet hue with hints of purple, offering enticing aromas of ripe red and black fruits. They are known for their rounded palate and finely integrated tannins, making them approachable and enjoyable in their youth. Best consumed within 5 years of production, these reds are ideally served at a temperature of 16°C and pair beautifully with red meats.
In contrast, the dry white wines of Graves de Vayre exhibit a light straw color tinged with green reflections. Delicate and vibrant, these whites boast captivating aromas of flowers and citrus fruits. With a refreshing acidity and rounded mouthfeel, they are perfect for enjoying as an aperitif or paired with seafood dishes. These wines typically age well for around 3 years and are best served chilled at 8°C to fully appreciate their lively character.
Loupiac and Sainte-Croix-du-Mont
Loupiac and Sainte-Croix-du-Mont are exquisite sweet white wines crafted from Sémillon grapes that have been delicately affected by the Noble Rot. These prestigious wines exhibit a stunning golden hue with deep golden highlights, enticing the senses with aromas of luscious candied fruits and subtle spices.
Renowned for their exceptional aging potential, the finest vintages of Loupiac can gracefully mature for over 20 years, while Sainte-Croix-du-Mont can continue to develop for more than 30 years, evolving in complexity and depth over time.
Wine connoisseurs recommend serving these remarkable wines slightly chilled at around 9°C, a temperature that allows their rich flavors to shine. Pairing them with duck foie gras enhances their opulent character, creating a harmonious culinary experience that delights the palate.
Sainte-Foy
Sainte-Foy, situated as the easternmost vineyards of the Entre-Deux-Mers, achieved the prestigious designation of AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) in 1937. Spanning an expansive area of 370 hectares, this region produces a diverse range of wines, including reds, dry whites, sweet whites, and liquoreux, all renowned for their exceptional quality.
The Sainte-Foy Rouge wines boast a deep, dark red color with shades of purple, accompanied by enticing aromas of ripe black fruits that gradually evolve into delicate floral and woody notes. These wines are characterized by their dense and rounded palate, featuring well-established yet fine tannins. With a potential aging period of 5 to 10 years, Sainte-Foy Rouge wines are ideally served at a temperature of 16°C and make a perfect accompaniment to lamb dishes.
In contrast, the Sainte-Foy Blanc wines present a pale yellow hue with hints of green or golden tones, depending on the vintage. Delicate, supple, and refreshingly smooth, these wines offer floral notes on the nose and a rounded palate. Best enjoyed within 5 years of production, they are recommended to be served at 11°C and pair wonderfully with fish and seafood.
Sainte-Foy Sweet White wines are crafted from over-ripened grapes, resulting in enticing aromas of ripe peaches and apricots, complemented by floral undertones. Light, fresh, and smooth, these wines offer a delightful drinking experience.
Meanwhile, Sainte-Foy Liquoreux wines, produced from grapes affected by the Noble Rot, boast complex aromas of fruit jellies, honey, and florals. Dense yet not heavy, these wines exhibit persistent flavors and can age gracefully for up to 10 years. Served at a cool temperature of 8°C, they make a perfect pairing with foie gras, desserts, or as an aperitif.
Entre-Deux-Mers region
Entre-Deux-Mers is a beautiful region waiting to be explored, offering a delightful journey through its picturesque vineyards. Amidst the rolling hills and lush vineyards, travelers will encounter numerous treasures, including bastides, charming villages, and historic landmarks that add to the region’s allure.
The bustling market town and bastide of Créon, dating back to the 13th century, serves as the agricultural hub and capital of Entre-Deux-Mers. Its vibrant market, set against a backdrop of medieval architecture, offers a glimpse into the region’s agricultural heritage.
Sauveterre-de-Guyenne, founded in 1281, beckons visitors with its well-preserved bastide layout, complete with ramparts and four gateways. The Romanesque church of St-Genès-de-Lombaud, home to a revered Black Virgin statue, stands as a testament to centuries of pilgrimage tradition.
In Sadirac, a pottery center since the 18th century, visitors can explore the rich history of local craftsmanship at the pottery museum, showcasing pottery crafted from the distinctive blue clay of the region.
La Sauve Abbey, founded by St. Gérard in 1079, offers a glimpse into medieval religious life, with the ruins of the 12th-century St-Pierre church serving as a striking example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
The fortified Blasimon Abbey, with its exquisite 16th-century open-work belfry gable, reflects the architectural transition from Romanesque to Gothic styles, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s medieval past.
Rauzan, with its charming market town ambiance, invites visitors to explore its ruined 12th-century castle, featuring a magnificent round keep offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Throughout Entre-Deux-Mers, each village and landmark tells a story of the region’s rich history and cultural heritage, making it an enchanting destination for travelers seeking to uncover the secrets of Bordeaux’s vineyard countryside.
Please remember to drink responsibly www.drinkaware.co.uk L’abus d’alcool est dangereux pour la santé, à consommer avec modération – Photos via Wikimedia Commons: Entre Deux Mers wine and Header by Agne27 CC BY-SA 3.0 – Bordeaux wine region map by Domenico-de-ga CC BY-SA 3.0 – Blasimon Abbey by Henry Salomé CC BY-SA 3.0 – La Sauve Abbey ruins by User:Pinpin CC BY-SA 3.0 – Cadillac wine by Isabelle Palatin CC BY-SA 2.0
