Summary:

With more than 100,000 hectares, Bordeaux is the largest wine-growing region in the world, but today it is desperately out of fashion. Bordeaux “bashing”, climate change and a decline in global wine consumption are putting the world's most famous wine region at risk. While a few prestigious Grand Crus retain their appeal, the industry is facing a crisis akin to the phylloxera outbreak. But solutions do exist.

In this presentation, we will take an in-depth look at the dynamic transformation of the modern Bordeaux wine industry. With a focus on emerging trends and innovative producers, we explore unconventional approaches, from making monovarietal wines and reviving old varieties to redefining classic regions such as Medoc and Entre-deux-Mers. We'll talk about the organic and biodynamic practices that are taking centre stage, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and quality, and meet the Bordeaux pirates who are pushing the boundaries and making exceptional wines that won't break the bank.

About the Speaker:

Valeria Tenison is based in Bordeaux, precisely in a small village next to Saint-Emilion, running a boutique export company A la volée Int. and writing for several esteemed wine publications including Jane Anson’s Inside Bordeaux and VertdeVin.

Her journey into the world of wine began during her university tenure, as she immersed herself in the hospitality sector. Post-graduation, she embarked on a career with a renowned French hotel chain, honing her skills in restaurant management for over a decade. However, her passion for wine ultimately beckoned, leading her to relocate to France in 2018 to pursue a Master's in Wine Tourism Innovation at the University of Bordeaux. In 2021, Valeria obtained WSET Diploma, swiftly followed by enrollment in the rigorous Master of Wine program, where she currently is a Stage 2 candidate.

Despite her multifaceted professional and academic commitments, Valeria finds joy in occasionally returning to her roots as a sommelier, delighting in serving at private connoisseur dinners and lending her expertise to fellow restaurateurs in Bordeaux.

Timestamps:

Introduction and Overview (00:00)
Justin introduces Valeria Tennison and her expertise in Bordeaux, setting the stage for the discussion.

Bordeaux's Current Trends and Challenges (00:01)
Valeria discusses the challenges and innovations in Bordeaux, including the decline in red wine consumption, overproduction crisis, and the growing popularity of white wines.

Viticultural Area and Production (00:02)
Valeria provides an overview of Bordeaux's viticultural area, production statistics, and the dominance of red wines in the region.

Grape Varieties and Blends (00:05)
Valeria delves into the grape varieties and their significance in Bordeaux's winemaking, discussing the impact of climate change on grape characteristics.

Export Markets and Consumption (00:09)
Valeria explores Bordeaux's export markets, emphasizing the traditional and emerging consumer bases, such as China, the United States, and new potential markets.

Challenges in Bordeaux (00:11)
Valeria addresses the overproduction crisis, low wine prices, and the government's initiatives to address the challenges faced by Bordeaux's wine industry.

Impact of Climate Change (00:16)
Valeria discusses the effects of climate change on Bordeaux, including temperature rise, drought, and the increasing frequency of mildew attacks and spring frosts.

Experimental and Hybrid Grape Varieties (00:20)
Valeria introduces new experimental grape varieties and hybrid grapes, detailing their potential to adapt to climate change and their inclusion in Bordeaux's winemaking.

Growing Production of White Wines and Medoc Blanc (00:26)
Valeria highlights the increasing production of white wines in Bordeaux and the upcoming appellation of Medoc Blanc, showcasing the region's expansion beyond red wines.

Alcoholic Wines Trend (00:27)
Discussion of the recent trend of alcoholic wines in Bordeaux, including famous producers and their experiments.

Rosé and Crémant Production (00:31)
The growing production of rosé and crémant wines in Bordeaux, its potential, and competition with other regions.

Mono Varietal and Single Vineyard Wines (00:34)
The emergence and popularity of mono varietal wines, particularly Cabernet Franc and Malbec, and the experimentation with single vineyard wines.

Innovative Aging Vessels (00:36)
The use of modern aging vessels such as amphoras, wine globes, and plastic vessels in Bordeaux winemaking for experimentation and climate adaptation.

Sustainable Viticultural Practices (00:39)
The adoption of sustainable viticultural practices in Bordeaux, including organic, biodynamic, and high environmental value certifications.

Pirate Winemakers (00:40)
The activities and controversial methods of the association of small growers, known as "Pirate Winemakers," and their efforts to challenge traditional wine competitions.