If you’re looking to brush up on your wine selection skills the next time you visit the UK, you might want to start with the British wine term ‘claret’. What is a claret? According to the UK government, it’s simply a “traditional term for wine” but is mostly a generic term when talking about full-bodied red Bordeaux wines. The term comes from the French word ‘claret’, a darker pink wine that’s well beyond pink but not deep enough to be described as red, and hails from the Bordeaux region of France.
While this spirit is originally French, claret became an English commodity after King Henry II placed a ring on the finger of Eleanor of Aquitaine in 1152. After being under Aquitaine for over 100 years, Bordeaux was a courtesy dowry for the couple’s marriage, and became part of the English Empire when Henry II succeeded to the throne in 1154. However, it didn’t last forever, falling into French hands 300 years later. Still, the English loved claret, and trade between the two countries continued, with the fine wine becoming a vital import. But don’t expect to find the word “claret” written or engraved on a bottle. Today, the term is considered industry slang and the Bordeaux basics you should know before opening a bottle.
What does red wine taste like?
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What does red wine taste like? In a 2007 Decanter article, wine expert Stephen Spierer explained that a good red wine should be elegant with “bouquet aromas” and “height.” However, red wines from Bordeaux can be quite diverse when it comes to taste. One bottle might boast hints of dark fruit and oak notes to balance out a smooth sip, while other bottles of this Burgundy wine will have subtle hints of cherry blossom and lilac to complement the strong, bold tannins. The only way to really know is to open a bottle and take a sip.
When drinking or serving this red wine, it should be between 61 and 64 degrees Fahrenheit, and only after opening the bottle and pouring it for 15 to 30 minutes to allow it to breathe. If the weather is warm, remember that this Bordeaux wine will not do well when served with ice, so save the ice cubes for lighter wines.
What to serve with red wine?
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Because red wine has such a strong flavor, it requires a basic meal to pair it with. It shouldn’t overpower or clash with the wine, but it should have its own character. For this reason, Greek-style lamb chops are a good choice, as well as garlic butter steak and potato pan, which combines baby potatoes, skirt steak, and cheddar cheese. Speaking of cheese, pairing a red wine with the right one can be tricky, but a mellow Stilton, a velvety, ripe Camembert, and even some Brie will pair well with most Bordeaux red wines.
However, red wine can be enjoyed with fish too. Pour a glass of red wine with an oily tuna sandwich and some salty chips if you’re having a simple dinner while watching the next season of your favourite TV show. Or, keep it classy and next time you’re in the UK, order a bottle of red wine with your grilled salmon.
