Like all of the world's best wine growing apellations, the soil in Bordeaux is relatively poor, inhospitable soils that while not great for growing most types of agriculture, they are perfect for growing grapes. The type of soil and terroir is the most important factor that will determine the quality of wine.

There is a big difference between wines from the Right Bank and Left Bank, or should I say, there atr several important distinctions between Bordeaux wines from Left Bank and Bordeaux from the Right Bank.

On the Left Bank of Bordeaux, the best terroirs are predominantly gravel based. On the Right Bank of Bordeaux, the soils are dominated by clay and limestone. Of course you will also find some clay, limestone and sand in the Left Bank, as well as gravel and sand in the RIght Bank. It is these distinctive soil types that give the wines of Bordeaux much of their personality and character.

Left Bank

The gravel found in Medoc plays a vital role in the grape's development. The gravel soils in Bordeaux allow for excellent drainage, which is paramount to the vines and grapes.

In the Medoc, which includes all the major appellations starting from Margaux in the south moving up through Saint Julien, Pauillac and ending in Saint Estephe, there is a diverse array of gravel soils which further enhance or detract the character and level of quality in the wine.

Cabernet Sauvignon is the most important grape in the Pessac Leognan and Graves appellations. However, there are large plantings of Merlot, followed by Cabernet France and small amounts of Malbec and Petit Verdot planted in the appellation as well.

Right Bank

Things are different in the Right Bank with their respective terroirs and water sources. The two main appellations of the Right Bank, Saint Emilion and Pomerol are located close to the Dordogne river.

Pomerol, while located next to St. Emilion, could not be more different in soil composition. While clay or varying types and colors is prized in Pomerol, the soils also contain gravel, sand and deposits of iron. Merlot is the most important grape in the region, due to the appellation's clay rich terroir. Cabernet Franc takes the second place.