Arguably the most renowned wines on earth, the classed growths of Bordeaux continue to epitomize the power and complexity Bordeaux blends are capable of. While most wines here are based on Cabernet Sauvignon, both Merlot and Cabernet Franc play important roles in adding layered complexity to the finished wines, and allow winemakers in each commune within the region to use the blend that is best suited to their unique combination of soil and meso-climate. The most famous communes each have their own classic traits with St. Estephe giving full, if rustic wines, from the heavy clay soils, to Paulliac's elegant balance of ripe fruits, minerality and structure to St. Julien's rich blackberry core and supple feel. Moving to the South of the region brings one to Margaux, with its notes of flowers and berries draped over a feminine frame, and then to the Graves region with wines redolent of tobacco, gravel and smoke. To the East lies the famous appellations of St. Emillion, with its wonderfully ripe Cabernet Franc, and Pomerol where Merlot rules the roost and produces deep, plush wines of uncommon refinement.