Bordeaux Redefined: Claret Returns for Cooler Palates

Bordeaux has formally validated 'Bordeaux Claret,' a designation that will appear on bottles from the 2025 vintage. This initiative aims to reintroduce a lighter, less tannic, and lower-alcohol style of red wine, harkening back to its historical roots when claret was a common term for Bordeaux reds. The region's wine industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by both climate change and evolving consumer preferences.

Warmer temperatures have presented a "positive challenge," enabling better grape ripeness but also contributing to commonly high alcohol levels. In response, winemakers are adjusting production methods, focusing on freshness and balance over power. This strategic pivot aligns with a broader trend where consumers, influenced by warmer weather and changing habits, are seeking lighter, more versatile, and chillable red wines.