Médoc Region Launches First Official White Wine Appellation, 70 Producers to Join in 2025

Producers in the Médoc region of Bordeaux are introducing a new chapter in their winemaking history with the official recognition of the Médoc Blanc appellation, starting with the 2025 vintage. This move was announced at a press conference in Bordeaux on Monday, October 13, by representatives of the Médoc, Haut-Médoc, and Listrac-Médoc appellations. The new designation allows for the production of white wines under the Médoc name, a significant shift for a region long known for its red wines.

The change comes after an official decree on July 31, which updated the rules for Médoc wine production. The new regulations permit the use of traditional Bordeaux white grape varieties such as muscadelle, sauvignon blanc, sauvignon gris, and sémillon. It also allows for experimental varieties like alvarinho, floréal, liliorila, sauvignac, and souvignier gris. In addition to expanding grape options, the decree requires all producers to obtain environmental certification. Accepted certifications include Organic Agriculture (AB), High Environmental Value (HVE), and Terra Vitis. Producers must also follow strict biodiversity guidelines, such as banning full-field herbicide use and preserving soil structure.

The decision to create a white wine appellation is rooted in both tradition and market demand. Historically, white wines were produced in the Médoc until the early 20th century. In 1929, records show that 16,000 hectoliters of white wine were made in the region. However, production declined over time as red wines became dominant. Recently, there has been renewed interest in white wines from both consumers and producers. In 2023, Médoc produced about 5,000 hectoliters of white wine.

Claude Gaudin, president of the Organisme de Défense et de Gestion (ODG) for Médoc wines, explained that while the original plan was to include more grape varieties such as chardonnay and chenin blanc, the current list focuses on those already established in Bordeaux to speed up approval. He indicated that discussions about further expanding permitted varieties will continue as producers look for grapes best suited to future climate conditions.

The new rules also give winemakers flexibility in how they make their wines. There is no requirement to blend different grape varieties or to age wines in oak barrels. This allows producers to experiment with single-variety wines and different aging techniques.

Currently, about 70 producers are expected to participate in the Médoc Blanc appellation, covering around 170 hectares out of a total of 245 hectares planted with white grapes in the region. Some vineyards grow chardonnay or other varieties not yet included in the official list. The ODG estimates that white wine production could increase by 10 to 20 hectares per year if market demand supports it.

Several well-known estates are already involved in producing Médoc Blanc wines. At Château Doyac in Saint-Laurent-de-Cadourne, co-manager Clémence de Pourtalès described their sauvignon blanc as having a distinctive saline finish due to the local clay and limestone soils. At Château Fourcas Hortens in Listrac-Médoc, director Éloi Jacob highlighted their blend of sauvignon blanc, sauvignon gris, and sémillon as lively and textured.

Producers see this new appellation as an opportunity to showcase both technical skill and regional identity. Jean-Michel Laporte of Château Talbot emphasized that Médoc Blanc aims to be a wine for gastronomy—precise and expressive enough for food pairing. Christophe Capdeville at Château Brane Cantenac noted that having an official appellation helps situate these wines within both local tradition and broader history.

From a marketing perspective, Laura Sorin at Château Castera said that making white wine gives producers more creative freedom and helps them reach new audiences without being limited by expectations tied to red wine labels.

The introduction of Médoc Blanc marks a significant evolution for one of France’s most famous wine regions. By combining respect for tradition with environmental responsibility and openness to innovation, Médoc producers hope to secure their place in a changing global wine market while responding to both consumer interest and climate challenges.