Francs – Côtes de Bordeaux Wine Region

The Francs – Côtes de Bordeaux appellation is in Bordeaux wine region of southwest France. Francs-Côtes de Bordeaux appellation applies to red, rosé and white wines. In 2009, the appellation of Côtes de Bordeaux was dissolved and renamed as Francs - Côtes du Bordeaux. There is a vineyard of 500 hectares which is planted with Merlot (50%), Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc (25% each) and Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Musceda (60%). The wines from this region are often characterized by their unique style. We highly recommend you visit this region to taste the delicious wines you have on offer.

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Where is the Francs – Côtes de Bordeaux Wine Region

The Francs-Côtes-de-Bordeaux appellation is a subregion of the larger Bordeaux wine region, located on the right bank of the Dordogne river in southwest France. It is one of the smallest regions in Bordeaux but has its own AOC designation since 2009.

History of Francs – Côtes de Bordeaux

The Côtes de Bordeaux appellation was created in 2009 and seeks to bring together several cotes of Bordeaux under a single banner. The aim behind this is to improve the marketability of the wines in question and simplify the overall Bordelais appellation structure. Individually, these appellations lacked the marketing resources to combat the increasing popularity of Bordeaux style wines from other regions, particularly in the New World." The process began in 1985 with the founding of the Association des Côtes de Bordeaux. This later became Les Cinq Côtes de Bordeaux as confusion had arisen from calling it by its first name. By the end of 2003, the consensus was to create a Côtes de Bordeaux appellation, which included 4 geographical zones: Blaye, Cadillac, Castillon and Francs. Finally after more consultations and bureaucracy it was confirmed as a reality in late 2006.

Terrior of Francs – Côtes de Bordeaux

The subsoils in the Francs – Côtes de Bordeaux Wine Region are made from limestone, which is fossil-rich and covered with limestone molasse. This creates a dry continental climate, with cold winters and hot summers. Land on hillsides with eastern views, sunny and less prone to hail and storms. Somewhat protected from the valleys of the Isle and Dordogne rivers.

Francs – Côtes de Bordeaux Characteristics 

Côtes de Bordeaux wines from the Francs are primarily made of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. Aromas of the wine include red berries in a younger wine, at first with prune, leather, and vanilla notes that develop more with time. Francs wines tastes sumptuous and the aging potential is 5-10 years. The best serving temperature is 59-62.6° F. The whites are made from a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and Muscadelle. The less internationally recognised varieties Colombard and Ugni Blanc are also allowed in Côtes de Bordeaux Franc whites wines. However, with their limited international appeal, these will remain a minority component overall and are unlikely to have an impact on the style of this appellation.  Set in 5 square kilometres of vineyards, Francs-Côtes-de-Bordeaux produces approximately 2.5 million litres of red wine and a minimal quantity of white wines each year.

Food to pair with Francs – Côtes de Bordeaux

1. Cassoulet

French cassoulet contains three different recipes, each with its own distinct flavour and ingredients. The dish name comes from the pot it is typically cooked in called a cassole.

One variation of cassoulet comes from Castelnaudary and is based on white beans with pork products such as smoked ham, spicy sausages and pork shoulder. The Carcassone cassoulet uses mutton instead of pork. The Tolousain variety mixes duck or goose confit with the other ingredients.

This staple of French comfort food is best enjoyed on a cold winter day and it is recommended to accompany it with a glass of Francs – Côtes de Bordeaux red wine.

2. Blanquette de veau

Blanquette de veau is a classic French dish that can be made at home. It has a strictly traditional and bourgeois identity, yet the simplicity of it helps keep it enjoyable for everyone to eat. The purity of this dish portrays the French identity well.

The ingredients are prepared with a rich white sauce, so they turn into a taste sensation. The cooking technique also makes them more digestible. The first recipe for blanquette de veau in 1739's "Les Dons de Comus." It has been a traditional dish for centuries.

The dish is usually served with rice, carrots and leeks. This dish is a great accompaniment to Francs-Côtes de Bordeaux wines.

3. Hachis Parmentier

Hachis Parmentier is a French dish combining mashed potatoes, minced meat, and sauce Lyonnaise. This is traditionally placed in pre-made potato shells for baking. The dish got its name after the famous French inventor and nutritionist named Antoine-Augustin Parmentier, who always looked into new ways to incorporate potatoes into French gastronomy because he believed they were extremely nutritious. Hachis Parmentier pairs well with Francs-Côtes de Bordeaux wines.

Places to visit near Francs – Côtes de Bordeaux

1. Water activite- River Garonne Cruise

Bordeaux has a lot to offer for tourists. One of the best ways to explore the city is on a sightseeing cruise on the Garonne River. With live commentary and wine, you can soak up some of Bordeaux's finest sights with no hassle.

2. Bordeaux: Old Town City Exploration Game

Find out about the historic centre of Bordeaux through problem-solving and unlocking stories on your phone. Follow them to new places and learn amazing stories along the way.

3. The Big Bell of Bordeaux

In the 13th century, the prosperity of the city led to its extension towards the South and the construction of a new rampart. The Grosse Cloche, also called the Porte Saint-Eloi, was one of the main gates. This monument on the pilgrims' route to Santiago, built next to the church of Saint-Eloi and listed by decree on 12 July 1886, towers over it.

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Francs – Côtes de Bordeaux Wine Region