This Wine Is The Secret To Nailing Your Next Dinner Party
Few nationalities champion cuisine quite like the French. From delicious charcuterie, impeccable cheeses and iconic boulangeries, to an unparalelled range of wines – it’s the place for quality dinner party additions. And arguably the most important ingredient when hosting is great wine. To celebrate Bordeaux Wine Month, we’ve tasted a selection of bottles that show the diversity that the region has to offer, and that are sure to take the stress out of menu planning…
In Partnership With Bordeaux Wine Month
Mark your calendar
Whether you’re hosting friends, are a seasoned wine connoisseur, or are simply looking to learn more about wine, Bordeaux Wine Month is for you. This September (1st-30th), over 100 independent wine merchants throughout the UK are taking part in this celebration of Bordeaux, with a packed schedule of free tastings, masterclasses, curated food pairings, promotions, and more.
While the region is highly associated with red wines (accounting for 80% of its harvest), Bordeaux’s sparkling crémants, fresh whites, crisp rosés, and sweet wines — all on the more affordable end of the spectrum — are becoming increasingly recognised and sought after. Take this as your opportunity to embark on a wine-tasting adventure. Who knows, you might even find a new favourite.
Not sure where to start? Lean into the expertise of your participating local merchant to help you find the perfect bottle to embark on (or continue) your Bordeaux wine journey. We’ve picked a few of our favourites from this diverse region – scroll down to see our top picks.
Our dinner party favourites
On arrival – Haut-Mouleyre Crémant de Bordeaux Brut
Greet your guests with a glass of these refreshing, palate-cleansing bubbles. Made from Merlot and Semillon grapes in the traditional method employed for all Crémants and Champagnes, this sparkling wine is bursting with notes of lemon, melon and green apple.
This crémant is smooth, with rich brioche notes, making it the ideal drink to serve with a grazing board.
Robyn, Managing Director
Photo: CCrane Leroux_CIVB
To start – Château Bienveillance Bordeaux Blanc (2022)
Pair with fish and lighter vegetarian dishes
This unoaked organic Semillon showcases creamy notes of yellow plum and grapefruit, complemented by fresh citrus acidity, making it ideal for sipping with entrées such as smoked salmon blinis.
The would be perfect for an alfresco lunch in the sun teamed with seafood.
Beth, Social Media Assistant
For mains – Château Belle-Garde Bordeaux (2020)
Pair with gamey, red meats
This Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon blend marries seductive notes of plum and cassis to create a medium-bodied, complex red with plenty of character.
This wine is young with a spicy beginning, making it best served with red meats.
Caitlin, Senior Campaign Success Manager
Photo: CCrane Leroux_CIVB
To finish – L’Ilot de Haut Bergeron Sauternes (2022)
Pair with a decadent cheeseboard
Surprise your guests with a glass of sweet wine to finish off the meal. The floral, lychee, citrus, and vanilla notes pair beautifully with a variety of cheeses.
This is a lighter dessert wine – very drinkable and it won’t overpower your food pairing.
Harriet, Head Of Partnerships
How to get involved
Bordeaux Wine Month runs from 1st-30th September at over 100 participating wine merchants across the UK (view the full list). For Londoners, these are the local spots taking part:
Blackheath Vintners
Blanco & Gomez Wine Merchants LTD
Brompton Wine LTD
Cavavin
Davy’s Wine Shop
Dulwich Vinters
Friarwood Fine Wines Ltd
Harrison’s
Highbury Vinters
L’Ami Jac
Lea and Sanderman
Paulette
Soho Wine Supply
Symposium
Theatre Of Wine
For more information about Bordeaux Wine Month, visit www.bordeaux.com and follow @bordeauxwines on Instagram.
Photo: CIVB
