Is Bordeaux Red Wine Used in Cooking? Is It Suitable?

Do people cook with Bordeaux red wine? Is it suitable?

Ha, yes! I personally cook with Bordeaux red wine quite often, especially for braising meats or making sauces. Bordeaux red wine is actually quite common in cooking, particularly in French cuisine, as it adds depth and flavor to dishes. Don't worry, I'm not a professional chef, just sharing my experience and explaining simply why it works.

Why is Bordeaux red wine suitable for cooking?

Flavor Profile and Composition Match: Bordeaux reds are typically dry, with some acidity and tannins (that dry, puckering sensation). This helps tenderize meat during cooking and balances the flavors in sauces. For example, the fruity notes and oakiness in the wine add complexity, preventing the dish from tasting flat.
Common Uses: Many people use it for dishes like Beef Bourguignon (though traditionally made with Burgundy wine, Bordeaux works fantastically), or as a sauce for chicken or duck. Even simpler, you can splash some into stir-fries for extra flavor.
When Not to Use: Don't waste wine that's too sweet or too expensive. Most Bordeaux is dry red, making it suitable, but stick to mid-range bottles (around $15-30 USD). Save the expensive ones for drinking. The alcohol cooks off, leaving the good flavors behind.

Simple Recipe Suggestions I've Tried

If you want to give it a go, here's a super easy one:

Red Wine Braised Beef: Brown beef chunks, add onions, carrots, and garlic. Pour in half a bottle of Bordeaux red wine, and simmer on low heat for 1-2 hours. Add salt, pepper, and herbs – it'll smell amazing.
Pan Sauce: Reduce some red wine in the pan, add butter and mushrooms, thicken it up, and pour it over steak. Instantly elevates the dish.

In short, it's absolutely suitable! Cooking with wine is all about enhancing flavor, no need to be a pro. For your first try, start with a more affordable Bordeaux and experiment. After a few tries, you'll love the results. Feel free to ask if you have any specific dishes in mind!