New Grapes in Bordeaux

The French government has tight control over wine grape growing in their country (other countries do the same). Bordeaux is only allowed to grow certain grapes with the best-known being Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec, and Petite Verdot for reds and Sauvignon Blanc for white (there are a few others).

Merlot in the St. Emilion area of Bordeaux

France is allowing four more reds and two whites with the express goal of being ready just in case climate change makes it difficult to grow some of the grapes that are there now. You've never heard of these new grape varieties. They will be limited in the acreage that can be planted and the amount of juice in the final blend. Their names will never appear on the label.

That doesn't mean one, or more, might be a major player in Bordeaux in 50 years. Grape varieties have different heat ranges they thrive in. If things warm up enough Malbec might be out and more Petit Verdot in. Merlot is the most-planted grape in Bordeaux, but it could also become a victim of too much heat.

Read more about it here.