Appellation Contrôlée (AC) Pessac-Léognan wine is a classification of red and white wine produced in the Pessac-Léognan sub-region of the Graves area in southwestern France, south of the city of Bordeaux. It is a regulated classification system that ensures that the wine meets specific standards and is made according to certain guidelines.
The AC Pessac-Léognan classification includes both red and white wines, which are typically made from a blend of grape varieties. For red wines, the blend may include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec, while for white wines, the blend may include Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. The grapes used in AC Pessac-Léognan wines are grown in specific vineyard areas in the Pessac-Léognan sub-region, which are known for their unique soil and climatic conditions.
Once harvested, the grapes are carefully fermented and aged in oak barrels to enhance their flavor and texture. AC Pessac-Léognan wines must also meet strict regulations regarding alcohol content, residual sugar and other factors to ensure consistency and quality across all producers.
The resulting AC Pessac-Léognan wines are known for their elegance and complexity. The red wines are typically characterized by a full body, firm tannins and a complex flavor profile with notes of blackcurrant, dark chocolate and tobacco. The white wines are known for their bright acidity, minerality and fruity aromas, often with notes of citrus and tropical fruit. Both the red and white wines have a long finish. AC Pessac-Léognan wines are often regarded as some of the best wines in the world.