Médoc

Médoc is a wine-producing region on the left bank of the Gironde estuary in the Bordeaux wine region of southwestern France. The area lies on the Médoc peninsula in the Gironde department, part of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. It comprises two main subregions, Bas-Médoc and Haut-Médoc, and is known for producing principally red wines from Bordeaux varietals, especially blends led by Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The climate is maritime, with mild winters and warm summers tempered by the estuary, and soils are largely gravel over clay and limestone, a mix favorable for drainage and Cabernet Sauvignon.

In terms of appellations, the region includes Médoc AOC, Haut-Médoc AOC, and notable sub-appellations such as Margaux, Pauillac, Saint-Julien, and Saint-Estèphe within the Haut-Médoc. The 1855 Bordeaux classification includes several Médoc châteaux among its top-tier rankings. Wines from Médoc are typically structured, with firm tannins, aging potential, and flavors of blackcurrant, cedar, tobacco, and earth.

The Médoc is one of Bordeaux's major wine districts, with extensive vineyard estates, tourism, and wine routes. Production emphasizes strict appellation controls and quality standards. The term Médoc designates the general geographic area in the Gironde department and is sometimes used to refer to the historic region rather than a single administrative entity.

See also: Bordeaux wine region; Haut-Médoc; Margaux; Pauillac; Saint-Julien; Saint-Estèphe; 1855 classification.