The Saint-Estèphe appellation

Saint-Estèphe is a controlled designation of origin for red wines produced in the commune of Saint-Estèphe in the Médoc region of Bordeaux. Located north of the Pauillac appellation, Saint-Estèphe is the northernmost of the communal appellations in the Médoc vineyard.

Vines were already planted in the territory of Saint Estèphe in Roman times. From the Middle Ages, the vineyards experienced their growth thanks to English traders who came to buy their wine in the port of Bordeaux. From the 17th century, the drainage of marshy lands made it possible to enlarge the areas.

The appellation benefits from a climate similar to that of Bordeaux-Mérignac. The proximity of the Gironde softens the local microclimate.

Charter of the appellation

Cabernet Sauvignon (60%) is largely dominated in the blend. The recommended grape varieties for the appellation are Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Carménère, Côt and Petit Verdot.

The harvesting method is not imposed in the specifications. Many estates use the harvesting machine while the prestigious estates harvest manually. The minimum alcoholic strength is 11% by volume. The rather heterogeneous terroir produces different wines depending on the estate. Only an acidity, a tannic structure and a color superior to the other wines of the Médoc. The aging gives it fruitiness, roundness and finesse. These are, for sure, wines for great keeping.

Food and wine pairing

This is a wine that pairs well with red meats. Thanks to the power of its structure, Saint Estèphe can compete with red meats such as Côte de Boeuf and lamb or, after aging, with marinated game or a truffle sauce.

The Classified Growths of the Saint-Estèphe appellation

our selection

Cos d’Estournel 2010

Deep garnet in color, the 2010 Cos d’Estournel unfolds slowly and measuredly, releasing delicate notes of dried blackberries, stewed plums and cassis pastilles before giving way to notions of potpourri, black cherry compote and chocolate box plus touches of dried sage, tobacco and cassis. new leather. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a solid base of very firm, grainy tannins and very lively acidity supporting the remarkable intensity of the tightly wound layers of fruit, a very long and perfumed finish. – Robert Parker

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Château Montrose 1996

It was served with the 1986 Montrose, however, this is a much better wine. For me, it is that loamy character that defines the nose—freshly plowed, damp soil that tinges black fruit—that takes you right to this particular chateau. It is classic through and through and very well defined. The palate is wonderful with very nice delineation, perfect acidity, touches of graphite infusing the red and black fruits that meld into a very pretty floral finish. This is clearly one of the greatest wines of the 1996 vintage and I would stock up on as much as I can, as it will please for 30-40 years. – Robert Parker

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Château Calon Ségur 2009

The 2009 Calon-Ségur is a deep garnet colour and opens with a beautiful perfume of redcurrant jam, cassis, black cherry compote and red roses with hints of cigar box and cinnamon stick. Medium-bodied and wonderfully elegant on the palate, it has a compelling line of very ripe, fine-grained tannins and fresh notes supporting the perfumed layers, for a long and perfumed finish. – Robert Parker

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