Bordeaux is quite possibly the most well-known wine region in the world. At almost 120,000 hectares, it is also the largest. The region was first cultivated by the Ancient Romans in the 1600’s and today there are 7,500 wine-makers in the region producing 75 million cases of wine each year. But the key to really understanding the Bordeaux region is understanding the Left and Right Banks and the difference between the two.
The Bordeaux region is situated on the western coast of France. The Gironde Estuary winds down from the coast, dividing the region in two, before separating into the Dordogne and Garonne rivers. The area to the northeast of the river is the Right Bank, and the area to the south west of the river is the Left Bank. However, there is far more to these regions than their geographical location.
Similarities of Left Bank vs. Right Bank Bordeaux
For being from one region, the two banks could not be more different. They do have one very important thing in common, though: Both have achieved a great amount of prestige and notoriety, and for good reason.
These wines have been perfected through centuries of winemaking and have stood the test of time. Wines from both banks enjoy the benefits of the classification system that was introduced in 1855 and was developed as a way to identify the top wines of the region. Over time, both banks have developed their own classifications to help identify the best of the best.
Differences of Left Bank vs. Right Bank Bordeaux
The Left Bank is most well-known for Cabernet Sauvignon, followed by Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot, and the lesser known Carmenere. The gravelly soil is perfect for Cabernet grapes as they retain heat which helps the grapes to ripen. That being said, all of the wines from the Left Bank are blends.
Over on the Right Bank, the cooler weather and damp clay soil provide excellent growing conditions for Merlot, making it the reigning grape of the right. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec are also grown on the Right Bank, but are generally used for blending.
Red wines may dominate the Bordeaux region, but white grapes—primarily Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon, both used to make Bordeaux Blanc—are grown here, too.
How To Distinguish Between Left Bank vs. Right Bank Bordeaux
The styles of wine vary between appellations and estates, as each have their own winemaking traditions and conditions, but each bank has a general style.
On the left, the climate makes it difficult for the grapes to fully ripen, leading to higher acidity and more concentrated fruit flavours. They are also more tannic, owing to the predominant use of Cabernet Sauvignon and generally require a period of aging to soften the tannins. As it ages, the dark fruit flavour will meld into leather, spices, and truffle.
Wines from the red bank are soft, supple and can be enjoyed young. They tend to be more fruit-forward than the wines of the left, with less tannins and less acidity. These wines still have plenty of character, but offer more balance and drinkability. You will notice dark berry flavours, along with chocolate, and notes of tobacco, herbs, licorice and spices.
Left Bank vs. Right Bank Bordeaux Comparison Chart
| Characteristic | Left Bank | Right Bank |
| Sweetness | Dry | Dry |
| Acidity | Medium – High | Low – Medium |
| Tannins | High | Medium – High |
| Body | Full | Full |
| Tasting Notes | Blackberry, Black Cherry, Coffee, Vanilla, Licorice, Spice | Black Cherry, Plum, Licorice, Chocolate, Blueberry, Smoke |
| Popularity | 880 Avg. Monthly Searches | 880 Avg. Monthly Searches |
| Calories Per Glass | 125 calories | 125 calories |
| ABV % | 13 – 15% | 13 – 15% |
Pairing Food With Left Bank vs. Right Bank Bordeaux
Left Bank Bordeaux’s that are dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon are a delicious match to rich meats like steak, roast beef, venison and lamb. Roasted vegetables such as potatoes, onion, and peppers, along with big juicy burgers are also well matched with Left Bank Bordeaux.
On the other side, Right Bank Bordeauxs are best with lighter dishes, such as roast chicken or even pizza. Pork chops, stews, and tomato-based pasta dishes will also be complemented by these wines.
