As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of exploring the world of wines extensively, and the term “claret” is one that often arises in conversations among wine enthusiasts. While the term is most commonly associated with red Bordeaux wine, it is important to note that it is used unofficially and can also refer to Bordeaux-style red wines produced outside of the Bordeaux region, including those from the United States.
Bordeaux wines are renowned for their elegance and complexity, and they are predominantly blends of various grape varieties. The two primary grapes used in Bordeaux red blends are Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, which provide the backbone and structure of the wine. Other grape varieties, such as Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec, are also used in smaller proportions to add depth and character to the blend.
When it comes to Bordeaux wines, the term “claret” has historically been used in the United Kingdom as a reference to these red Bordeaux wines. It is interesting to note that the term “claret” is actually derived from the French word “clairet,” which was used to describe a pale red wine produced in Bordeaux in the past. Over time, the term “claret” in the UK has come to represent the red wines of Bordeaux, particularly those from the Left Bank (Medoc) and the Right Bank (Saint-Emilion and Pomerol).
While Bordeaux is the birthplace of claret, the term has expanded beyond its original boundaries. In the United States, for example, winemakers have embraced the Bordeaux style and produce their own versions of claret. These wines often incorporate the same grape varieties used in Bordeaux, but they may also incorporate local grape varieties to add a unique twist. California, in particular, is known for producing outstanding Bordeaux-style red blends that can be considered claret.
It is worth mentioning that the term “claret” is not regulated or officially recognized in the wine industry. It is more of a colloquial term that has been adopted by wine lovers and enthusiasts. So, while it may not have a strict definition, claret generally refers to red wines that are Bordeaux-inspired, whether they come from the Bordeaux region itself or from elsewhere in the world.
In my personal experience, I have encountered a wide range of clarets from different regions. Each wine has its own distinct characteristics, influenced by factors such as the terroir, winemaking techniques, and grape varieties used. Some clarets may exhibit bold flavors of blackcurrant and cedar, with firm tannins and a long, lingering finish, while others may showcase more ripe fruit flavors and softer tannins. Exploring the world of claret allows for a fascinating journey through the different expressions of Bordeaux-style red wines.
To summarize, claret is an unofficial term used to refer to red Bordeaux wines, which are predominantly blends of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. However, the term has also been adopted to describe Bordeaux-style red wines produced elsewhere, such as in the United States. While not officially recognized, claret represents a category of wines that embody the elegance, complexity, and balance often associated with Bordeaux. It is a term that sparks curiosity and invites wine lovers to explore the diverse world of red blends inspired by the Bordeaux tradition.