Situated on the west coast of France near the important port city which the region takes its name from and with over 120,000 ha of vineyards, historically and economically, Bordeaux is the largest fine wine region in the world.

The Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blends (and often including some Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec) from the left bank communes of Pessac Leognan, Margaux, Pauillac, St Julien and St Estephe are made in relatively large quantities and are the cornerstone of the fine wine market while Sauternes and Barsac are responsible for some of the world's greatest sweet white wines. On the right bank, the communes of Saint Emilion and Pomerol produce relatively small quantities of highly desired Merlot and Cabernet Franc based wines. Some of the most highly rated recent vintages are 2005, 2009 and 2010.