Bordeaux Vines

me in front of the vines at Chateau Pedesclaux. These vines were right next to Chateau Mouton Rothschild's vines (I know it was one of the 5 famous ones). I think it was literally less than a few hundred meters. I guess the quality doesn't rub off though. So much for terroir. Bordeaux Reds from Médoc are always a blend of several different grapes. Usually it is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc in that order. Sometimes there are other grapes too. The French have strict laws which govern this sort of thing. The laws cover the ways the vines are planted (heights of vines, yield per acres and stuff like that). The grapes or blend ratios are never printed on the label either, you just have to know. It only Says Médoc Grand Cru Classé. They don't have to disclose what level it is although the Premier Classé wines do advertise that fact.