How to Choose a Claret Wine

Claret can be one of many varietals. Robert Foley Vineyards claret is really Cabernet Sauvignon and claret from the European Union is from Bordeaux. No matter what name it assumes, this red wine is easygoing and flavorful and can be happily paired with anything from filet mignon to a pork barbecue sandwich.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Red wine or Bordeaux glasses

1. Understand the claret label. Wines labeled as claret that is produced in any country other than France are light-bodied wines full of forward, dark fruit flavors with medium to low tannins.

2. Learn about Left Bank claret. This wine is produced in the Medoc, Graves and Pessac-Leognan appellations in Bordeaux, France. Clarets produced in the Left Bank lean toward Cabernet Sauvignon in both body and flavors. These are big-bodied, earthy wines full of tannins with flavors of black currant and dark berries.

3. Know about Right Bank claret. This wine is produced in the Pomerol and St. Emilion appellations in Bordeaux France. Right Bank Clarets tend to mimic the characteristics of a fine merlot. While full of big tannins, it is more mellow than its Left Bank counterpart. Its dominant flavors evoke blackberries, bittersweet chocolate and coffee, with a slight hint of vanilla.

Tips & Warnings

• When choosing a claret from France, allow the wine to breathe before consuming. This allows the flavors to open up and develop more.
• Choose non-French Claret for lighter food dishes, such as salads and pastas with light cream sauces. This will ensure that the wine does not overpower the food.
• Don't pair Left or Right Bank claret with light food dishes. The flavors of the wine will overpower the delicate flavors of any light foods.

Resources

• Get additional information about Claret wine.
• Learn more about Claret from Bordeaux at Thewinedoctor.

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