In Bordeaux, do higher quality wines tend to have lower or higher yields?

In Bordeaux, higher quality wines are typically associated with lower yields. This relationship exists because producing high-quality wine often requires a more meticulous approach to vineyard management. When yields are kept low, the vines concentrate their energy and resources into fewer grapes, resulting in more intense flavors and complexity. Lower yields allow for better selection of fruit and often involve more careful vineyard practices, such as hand-harvesting and selective pruning.

Additionally, many Bordeaux producers aim to enhance the quality of their wines by limiting the number of grapes per vine, which promotes better ripening and allows the winemaker to showcase the unique terroir of the region. The focus on quality over quantity is fundamental to the reputation of Bordeaux wines, particularly in prestigious appellations like Pauillac, Saint-Émilion, and Margaux. Therefore, lower yields align with a commitment to crafting distinctively high-quality wines.