Saint Julien appellation

Located on the left bank of the Garonne, in the heart of the Médoc, the Saint-Julien appellation enjoys an enviable reputation. It is often regarded as the embodiment of Bordeaux balance, achieving the perfect synthesis between the tannic structure of Pauillac and the aromatic finesse of Margaux. Despite the small size of its territory, the Saint-Julien appellation stands out for its exceptional concentration of 11 Grands Crus Classés according to the 1855 classification.

A solid historical heritage

The winemaking history of Saint-Julien dates back, for some estates, to the 17th or even the 18th century — a time when the nobility, Bordeaux merchants, and prominent landowning families began shaping the Médoc wine landscape as we know it today.

Estates such as Château Léoville Las Cases, Château Beychevelle, and Château Talbot have stood the test of time, maintaining an unwavering commitment to quality. Throughout the centuries, these properties have adapted to challenges — wars, economic crises, and technological changes — without ever betraying the identity of their wines. This historical continuity, rare in the world of wine, gives the Saint-Julien appellation genuine cultural and heritage depth, in addition to its viticultural prestige.

A terroir between gravel and clay

The soil of Saint-Julien lies on thick layers of Garonne gravel, deposited by the ancient courses of the Garonne River, and formed into alluvial terraces atop a subsoil of clay, limestone, and marl dating from the Oligocene and Eocene epochs. The gently rolling landscape, shaped by a dense hydrographic network, provides excellent natural drainage.

The soils are composed of gravel, pebbles, sand, and clay — both permeable and well-structured. They allow the vine roots to reach depths of up to 5 meters, drawing essential nutrients (such as calcium and nitrogen) from the limestone and clay subsoil, ensuring the vines are well-nourished even during dry periods.

Evolving wine-growing practices

The estates of Saint-Julien are gradually embracing more sustainable practices, blending tradition with innovation. Many are turning to organic or biodynamic farming to preserve soil health and biodiversity while enhancing the expression of the terroir. Careful water management, thoughtful soil cultivation, and reduced intervention in the cellar now make it possible to produce wines that are more authentic and true to their identity.

The Saint Julien style: finesse and longevity

Saint-Julien wines are dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, which gives them structure and excellent aging potential. However, the significant presence of Merlot brings suppleness and an earlier roundness compared to their northern neighbors.

In tasting, they are recognized for their elegance, silky tannins, and aromatic bouquet combining notes of blackcurrant, cedar, tobacco, and cigar box. Built for longevity, they are often regarded as among the most harmonious of the Grands Crus Classés.

Château Beychevelle 1985

Food and wine pairings

With their silky tannic structure, aromatic depth, and beautiful freshness, they pair perfectly with red meats — whether grilled, roasted, or braised. Indeed, a wood-fired rib of beef or a venison fillet en croûte find in them an ideal companion.

Game birds such as pigeon, quail, or duck also pair beautifully with the aromatic complexity of these wines, especially when prepared with reductions featuring mushrooms, red fruits, or red wine.

Finally, aged cheeses such as Comté, Cantal, or certain mountain tommes reveal a beautiful synergy with the ripe, subtly oaky, and spicy aromas of Saint-Julien wines, creating an elegant and indulgent end to the meal.

Our selection

Château Ducru Beaucaillou 1982

Discover

Château Léoville Poyferre 1996

Discover

Château Beychevelle 1986

Discover