Grands vins - Saint-Émilion

Saint-Emilion is one of the most famous vineyards in the world and the first to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage under « cultural landscapes ». The appellation spreads over 8 towns and 5400 ha which benefit from an oceanic climate thanks to the Dordogne river, producing 51 000 hl of world-famous Bordeaux red wine.
Depending on the soils, exposition and age of the vines, or even the grape concentration, the different wines are marketed under two appellations : Saint-Emilion or Saint-Emilion Grand Cru. To deserve the latter, they must answer to precise and rigorous quality standards such as an output limited to 40hl/ha or a mandatory ageing in oak barrels for 12 months. The Saint-Emilion Grand Cru appellation includes two Grands Crus Classés A, the mythical Château Ausone and Château Cheval Blanc, joined recently by Château Pavie and Château Angélus as well as eleven Grands Crus Classés B like Clos Fourtet and Château Beauséjour Bécot.

Main grape varieties : Merlot (dominant), cabernet-sauvignon, cabernet franc.

Soils : limestone, clayloam (Fronsadais molasses), gravel alluvium, sand

Style of wines :

Saint-Emilion : dark color leaning toward a beautiful tiled garnet color with maturity. Complex nose with fragrances of ripe and macerated black and red fruits, notes of leather, soft spices and smoked wood. With age are added notes of undergrowth, humus and game. In the mouth, full, pulpy and structured with delicate and velvety tannins, with a beautiful finish on the fruit, spice and smokiness.

Saint-Emilion Grand Cru : crimson color. Aromatic, complex and concentrated nose with aromas of ripe black fruits, flowers, notes of prunes, spices, vanilla and grilled almond. In the mouth, ample, robust and full-bodied with fine and tight quality tannins. Long, fresh and aromatic finish for these exceptional Grands Crus Classés.