Saint-Julien AOC

French wine region in Bordeaux

Map of Médoc vineyards

Saint-Julien AOC is a prestigious wine appellation located in the Médoc subregion of Bordeaux, France. Known for producing some of the finest red wines in the world, Saint-Julien is renowned for its balance, elegance, and aging potential. The appellation is situated between the communes of Pauillac to the north and Margaux to the south, covering approximately 920 hectares of vineyards.

History

The history of Saint-Julien as a wine-producing region dates back to the Roman Empire, when the area was first cultivated for viticulture. The modern appellation was established in 1936, following the creation of the Appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) system in France. Over the centuries, the region has gained a reputation for producing wines that exemplify the classic characteristics of Bordeaux: structure, complexity, and longevity.

Geography and Climate

Saint-Julien is located on the Left Bank of the Gironde estuary, benefiting from a temperate maritime climate. The proximity to the estuary provides a moderating effect, reducing the risk of frost and allowing for a longer growing season. The soils in Saint-Julien are predominantly gravel, which provides excellent drainage and contributes to the concentration and quality of the wines.

Viticulture and Winemaking

The vineyards of Saint-Julien are planted primarily with Cabernet Sauvignon, which is the dominant grape variety, along with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. The wines are typically aged in oak barrels for 12 to 18 months, which adds complexity and depth to the final product.

Characteristics of Saint-Julien Wines

Saint-Julien wines are known for their balance and harmony, often described as a perfect blend of the power of Pauillac and the finesse of Margaux. They exhibit aromas of blackcurrant, cedar, and tobacco, with a firm tannic structure that allows them to age gracefully for decades.

Notable Châteaux

Saint-Julien is home to several renowned châteaux, many of which were classified in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification. Some of the most notable include:

• Château Léoville-Las Cases
• Château Ducru-Beaucaillou
• Château Gruaud-Larose

Bottle of Clos du Marquis 1990

Wine Classification

The wines of Saint-Julien are classified under the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, which ranks the top wines of the region into five growths, or "crus." Saint-Julien is unique in that it has no First Growths, but it boasts a high concentration of Second Growths, which are highly regarded for their quality and consistency.

Related Pages

• Bordeaux wine regions
• Médoc AOC
• Pauillac AOC
• Margaux AOC

Bottle of Château Terrey Gros Cailloux 1990