AOC Graves de Vayres

The Appellation d'Origine Protégée (AOP) Graves de Vayres is a small but prestigious appellation located in the Bordeaux wine region of France. Nestled between the Garonne and Dordogne rivers, this appellation is renowned for its high-quality red and white wines. With a unique terroir and a growing commitment to organic farming, Graves de Vayres wines are increasingly sought after by wine lovers.

Graves de Vayres covers an area of around 700 hectares, mainly in the communes of Vayres and Arveyres, located around 25 kilometers east of Bordeaux. The Graves de Vayres terroir is characterized by gravelly and sandy-gravelly soils, which ensure excellent drainage, essential for vine-growing. These soils, combined with a temperate oceanic climate, favor the production of high-quality grapes.

Graves de Vayres red wines are mainly made from Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc grapes. Merlot is often the dominant grape variety, bringing roundness, richness and aromas of red and black fruits. Cabernet Sauvignon adds structure, tannins and spicy notes, while Cabernet Franc contributes finesse and aromas of red fruits and violets.

Graves de Vayres red wines are known for their complexity, balanced structure and ageing potential. They present aromas of red and black fruits, tobacco, cedar, and sometimes mineral notes. On the palate, they are often full-bodied with well-integrated tannins and balanced acidity.

Graves de Vayres white wines are mainly produced from Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle grapes. Sauvignon Blanc brings exotic fruit and citrus aromas, good acidity and freshness. Sémillon adds roundness and floral notes, while Muscadelle contributes aromatic complexity with hints of white flowers and honey.

Graves de Vayres white wines are renowned for their freshness, liveliness and aromatic richness. On the palate, they offer good acidity, a light texture and fruity flavors that carry through to a refreshing finish.

The Graves de Vayres PDO is the most famous of the region's white wines.

The Graves de Vayres PDO covers around 700 hectares of vines. Annual production is close to 35,000 hectolitres, or around 4.5 million bottles. This production is carried out by around 45 winegrowers, ranging from small family estates to larger estates.

Organic farming is booming in the Graves de Vayres. Many estates have adopted environmentally-friendly viticultural practices, aimed at preserving biodiversity and soil health.

Organic farming is growing rapidly in the Graves de Vayres region.