Bordeaux reds are made from as many as five red varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec (although this last variety is rarely used in Bordeaux these days). While the classified chateaux form the Haut-Medoc are the most famous - and expensive - red wines from Bordeaux, there are several others produced in the region. Cru Bourgeois are excellent wines that are not as celebrated as the top wines of the region, but are fine values and are wines that can drink well for up to a decade.

Another red Bordeaux that is a notable value is Entre-Deux-Mers; wines from this district account for much of the basic Bordeaux reds that are produced today. Other reds from Bordeaux include those labeled as Blaye, Cotes-de-Bourg and Fronsac.