Bordeaux-Style Blends and How to Pair Them

When we talk about Bordeaux-style blends it is important to know the depth of that phrase and to understand what a Bordeaux blend truly is. Bordeaux-style blends can be used to describe a variety of wines including blends made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and, perhaps even Carmenère and Malbec.

Colloquially, Bordeaux-style blends include those produced in the Bordeaux region and beyond. California, Washington, and Argentina are all among the world’s producers of these types of wines. However, regulations dictate that only wines made in the Bordeaux area can be actually labeled as Bordeaux. 

Bordeaux-style blends are very popular, largely due to their versatility. These blends are easy enough to pair, so if you are looking for some Bordeaux blend food pairing ideas, look no further than this post. 

Some of the most recommended and classic Bordeaux blend food pairing ideas are red meats. Lamb and beef dishes lend themselves particularly well to this pairing. The tannins in these wines work with the protein in red meat to enhance flavors and make for an overall delicious pairing. 

Bordeaux-style blends pair well with absolutely any barbequed red meats and we also recommend dark-meat foul, venison, and bison for something a bit more unusual.

Now for the favorite part of any meal: dessert! Bordeaux blend food pairing ideas are not limited to the main course! Bordeaux-style blends lend themselves wonderfully to being paired with rich desserts, such as dark chocolate or other chocolates, particularly those that are unsweetened. Whether it’s a chocolate tort, some holiday fudge or a decadent layer cake, a Bordeaux-style blend is a great choice. 

One of our absolute favorites from the Bordeaux-style blend family is Pacific Rim & Co.’s own Thick Skinned. It’s a gorgeous blend from the Red Mountain wine region in Washington State. What will you pair it with?