{"title":"Thursday 11\/12: Stars of Saint-Julien Masterclass","description":"\u003cp\u003eLibrary Chateau Gloria and Chateau Saint-Pierre from the blockbuster 2015, 2018, 2019 and 2022 Bordeaux vintages: Saint-Pierre 2018 with seven critics at 95+, Saint-Pierre 2019 (JS 96), Gloria 2022 (JS 96), Gloria 2015 at eleven years and the Esprit de Saint-Pierre 2015 second wine.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"chateau-gloria-2022-saint-julien-bordeaux-france","title":"Chateau Gloria 2022 (Saint-Julien, Bordeaux, France) - [JS 96] [JL 95] [VM 94] [JD 94] [JA 94] [WA 93] [WS 93] [DM 93]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Winery:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eChâteau Gloria is one of the most emblematic estates in the Saint-Julien appellation on Bordeaux's Left Bank. An unclassified St-Julien property that produces clarets that equal in quality those from the more prestigious classed growths, Henri Martin, a cooper by upbringing, took over the property in 1942. He meticulously built up the property through the acquisition of plots of vines from Grands Crus Classés in 1855, such as Gruaud-Larose, Talbot, Lagrange and Léoville-Barton. By the mid 1960s he had 50 hectares spread across the appellation. In 1982 he purchased Château Saint-Pierre and thus realized his lifetime ambition of owning a Grand Cru Classé property.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHenri Martin died in 1991 and Gloria is now run by his son-in-law Jean-Louis Triaud. The wine is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot. It is aged in a combination of large oak foudres and small oak barrels (50% new).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Wine:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe 2022 is a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc and 9% Petit Verdot. It combines concentrated Cabernet-led fruit with the estate's generous, polished style.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVineyard \u0026amp; Blend:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGloria's vineyards occupy three areas around Beychevelle, western Saint-Julien and the northern boundary near Pauillac. Vines average approximately 40 years old on Gunzian gravel over sandy-clay subsoils. The 2022 blend is 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 9% Petit Verdot and 6% Cabernet Franc.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaking:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTraditional fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by 14 months in barrels, 40% new. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTasting Profile \u0026amp; Food Pairings:\u003cbr\u003eCassis and dark berries meet cedar, mint, spice and a chalky mineral impression. Concentrated fruit and ample tannins give this young wine a firm structure. Suggested pairings include roast lamb, grilled beef, duck and mushroom dishes. Cellaring will allow the fruit, tannins and oak to integrate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points – James Suckling:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e“A great Gloria from this striking vintage, which is not classical, but offers depth, concentration and masses of fine tannins. The broadest and most full-bodied Gloria as well, with superb intensity and small, dusty tannins, which together make the wine beguilingly approachable at a young age, though it is a little closed now. Deep aromas of cassis, blackberries, tapenade and dark chocolate, but if you expect a fuller picture of complexity and layers, wait for another four to five years. There is still lovely restraint to this big wine, which is built to age in the next 20 years. 50% cabernet sauvignon, 35% merlot, 9% petit verdot and 6% cabernet franc. From a vertical tasting at the winery.” – Zekun Shuai (Aug 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points – Jeff Leve, The Wine Cellar Insider:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e“Flowers, black cherries, plums, and chocolate hit all the right notes. The wine is medium-bodied, silky, elegant, soft, and polished, with layers of plums and cocoa from start to finish. 13.8% ABV. Drink from 2025-2042.” (May 2023)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points – Vinous Media:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e“The 2022 Gloria has an engaging and complex nose: black fruit, touches of blueberry, welcome estuarine scents, almost seaweed-like. Well defined, and the oak here is neatly integrated. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins, well judged acidity, gains weight towards the finish but it maintains superb delineation and focus. Excellent. Tasted blind at the Southwold tasting in London.” – Neal Martin (Mar 2026)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points – Jeb Dunnuck:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e“Cassis, spicy oak, exotic blue fruits, and chocolate notes all emerge from the 2022 Château Gloria, a concentrated yet beautifully balanced, medium to full-bodied effort from this team. It has terrific purity, a chalky sense of minerality, ample tannins, and a great finish. The 2022 is 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 9% Petit Verdot, and the rest Cabernet Franc, aged 14 months in barrel. Hide bottles for 4-6 years if you can and enjoy over the following two decades.” (Feb 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points – Jane Anson's Inside Bordeaux:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e“Deep plum colour, plenty of tannic grip that delivers poise and a frame that holds the deeply concentrated spices, sandalwood, campfire, cassis, blueberry, eucalyptus and mint. Edge of exuberance without going overboard. In biodynamic conversion. An upscore from En Primeur.” (Dec 2024)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points – Wine Advocate:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e“The 2022 Gloria has turned out beautifully, bursting with aromas of minty blackberries, tobacco leaf and creamy new oak. Medium to full-bodied, layered and fleshy, it's seamless and charming, with good balance and a flavorful finish. It's a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc and 9% Petit Verdot.” – William Kelley (Mar 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points – Wine Spectator:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e“A pretty violet note leads off before the core of kirsch, linzer torte and plum sauce starts to yawn awake. Licorice snap and bramble are injected into the finish, along with an apple wood accent. Shows grip and focus. For fans of the gutsy style. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2027 through 2038. 17,000 cases made.” – James Molesworth (May 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Decanter Magazine:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"A dark and toasted nose full of chocolate and coffee scents. Concentrated but full of cool blueberries and cola. Still quite massy, the tannins are at the fore, but they're fine rather than being too chewy or plush. Nicely controlled with focus and persistence and still juiciness on the finish which is so appealing. Mint, wet stones and a touch of bitter orange peel at the end.\" -Georgina Hindle (Jan 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"DUCLOT","offers":[{"title":"750 mL","offer_id":67862433431917,"sku":null,"price":79.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/files\/gloria-saint-julien-bottle.jpg?v=1793402632"},{"product_id":"chateau-gloria-2015-saint-julien-bordeaux-france","title":"Chateau Gloria 2015 (Saint-Julien, Bordeaux, France) - [JS 94] [WE 94] [VM 93] [WS 93] [JL 93] [JD 92] [WP 92]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Winery:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eChâteau Gloria is one of the most emblematic estates in the Saint-Julien appellation on Bordeaux's Left Bank. An unclassified St-Julien property that produces clarets that equal in quality those from the more prestigious classed growths, Henri Martin, a cooper by upbringing, took over the property in 1942. He meticulously built up the property through the acquisition of plots of vines from Grands Crus Classés in 1855, such as Gruaud-Larose, Talbot, Lagrange and Léoville-Barton. By the mid 1960s he had 50 hectares spread across the appellation. In 1982 he purchased Château Saint-Pierre and thus realized his lifetime ambition of owning a Grand Cru Classé property.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHenri Martin died in 1991 and Gloria is now run by his son-in-law Jean-Louis Triaud. The wine is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot. It is aged in a combination of large oak foudres and small oak barrels (50% new).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Wine:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe 2015 captures its expressive, fruit-rich character, combining Cabernet Sauvignon structure with the supple texture of Merlot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVineyard \u0026amp; Blend:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe estate's vines average around 40 years old across three sectors of Saint-Julien. Gravel soils over sandy-clay subsoils underpin the wine's identity. The 2015 blend is 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 7% Petit Verdot and 6% Cabernet Franc.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaking:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe producer's vintage sheet records fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks and 14 months of barrel aging, using 40% new barrels. Bottling took place in June 2017.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Profile \u0026amp; Food Pairings:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBlackberry, plum and cassis are complemented by tobacco, earthy spice and hints of violet. The wine combines a rounded middle palate with fresh acidity and fine tannins. Suggested pairings include roast lamb, beef tenderloin, duck breast, braised mushrooms and mature hard cheeses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points – Wine Enthusiast:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\"One of two classed-growth estates in Saint-Julien owned by the descendants of Henri Martin, this estate has been renovated and the results show in this well-crafted wine. Ripe tannins are balanced by smoky blackberry fruits and pure, clean acidity. Drink the wine from 2024.\" - Roger Voss (Feb 2018)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points – James Suckling:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e“Minty cassis, tobacco and berries with finely roasted spices. This is aging nicely, with a very good presentation of fine tannins on the medium- to full-bodied palate. Juicy, with sweet tannins lingering in the lengthy finish. A very elegant 2015 that shows poise, structure and also finesse. 60% cabernet sauvignon, 27% merlot, 7% petit verdot and 6% cabernet franc. Drink or hold. From a vertical tasting at the winery.” – Zekun Shuai (Aug 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points – Vinous Media:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e“The 2015 Gloria is another Saint-Julien that has improved over the last 12 months. It has a bolder and more exuberant bouquet than some of its peers, featuring lush blackberry and blueberry fruit and revealing a touch of iodine and crushed violet with aeration. The medium-bodied palate displays supple tannin, a fine bead of acidity and very pure fruit intensity (black cherries, bilberry and boysenberry), although it clams shut toward the finish. Slightly more modern in style than its peers, this should still age with style. Tasted blind at the Southwold 2015 Bordeaux tasting.” – Neal Martin (Jul 2019)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points \u0026amp; #63 Top 100 of 2018 – Wine Spectator:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e“Well-steeped plum, fig and boysenberry fruit is richly layered, supported by embedded brambly grip and backed by waves of ganache and sweet tobacco on the finish. This has plenty of energy to carry it in the cellar while it rounds into form. Best from 2023 through 2038. 18,333 cases made.” – James Molesworth (Mar 2018)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points – Jeff Leve, The Wine Cellar Insider:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e“This is just a terrific wine and value. Elegant, refined, fresh, lively, and with an earthy, ripe, dark, red berry character that grows and expands in the glass and on your palate. Medium\/full bodied.” (Mar 2018)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - Jeb Dunnuck:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"A blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot and the balance Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot that saw 40% new oak, the 2015 Château Gloria is a beautiful Saint-Julien that’s well worth seeking out and drinking. Blackcurrants, damp earth, spicy oak and hints of leafy herbs all flow to an upfront, elegant, yet fruit forward 2015 that has sweet tannin and good freshness. It’s no doubt a charmer, yet will see its 20th birthday in fine form. Tasted twice.\" (Nov 2017)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points – Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Palate:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e“The 2015 Gloria is medium to deep garnet in color. It has a nose of baked plums and boysenberries with an undercurrent of chocolate-covered cherries and spice cake, plus a hint of Sichuan pepper. Medium-bodied, the palate is plush and juicy with plenty of freshness and a peppery kick to the finish. (Drink between 2022-2032)”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e91 Points - Wine Advocate:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"A notable success in the vintage, the 2015 Gloria exhibits aromas of sweet dark berries, cigar wrapper and loamy soil, followed by a medium to full-bodied, rich and fleshy palate. Impressively concentrated and seamless, it's built around ripe, powdery tannins that are so supple that the wine can already be approached with pleasure.\" - William Kelley (Oct 2022)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"DUCLOT","offers":[{"title":"750 mL","offer_id":67862433464685,"sku":null,"price":89.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/files\/gloria-saint-julien-bottle.jpg?v=1793402632"},{"product_id":"chateau-saint-pierre-2019-saint-julien-bordeaux-france","title":"Chateau Saint-Pierre 2019 (Saint-Julien, Bordeaux, France) - [TWI 96+] [JS 96] [JA 96] [VM 95] [DM 95] [JL 95] [JD 94] [WA 93]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Winery:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eChâteau Saint-Pierre is the smallest Classified Growth in St Julien. It was ranked a Fourth Growth in 1855, but over the next century it was broken up into smaller and smaller parts. It was restored to its original holdings in 1982 by then-owner Henri Martin, proprietor of nearby Château Gloria. Today, his legacy lives on through his son-in-law Jean-Louis Triaud, and Jean-Louis’s own children.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Wine:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eThis 17-hectare estate is undergoing organic conversion and holds HVE-3 certification. Viticulture follows a bespoke mix of techniques picked up from organics and biodynamics, which Jean-Louis calls “our own system”.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere have been advances in the winery, too. Instead of pumping-over once in the morning and once in the afternoon, there are small pump-overs at hourly intervals, working around the clock. Amphorae are already a fixture of the cellar, and Jean-Louis hopes to reach a 50-50 balance between amphorae and the more traditional new French oak barriques.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts 2019 grand vin is a Cabernet Sauvignon-led Bordeaux with concentrated fruit, savory complexity and substantial aging potential.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVineyard \u0026amp; Blend:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe producer's 2019 sheet describes vines averaging 50 years old on Gunzian gravel over sandy-clay subsoils. The final blend is 79% Cabernet Sauvignon and 21% Merlot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaking:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTraditional fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. The producer specifies 14–16 months in barrels for this wine, with 49% new barrels for 2019. Bottling was recorded in June 2021.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Profile \u0026amp; Food Pairings:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBlackcurrant and dark berry fruit mingle with violet, cedar, tobacco and mineral notes. Dense fruit, fine tannins and freshness give the wine depth and definition. Suggested pairings include roast lamb, grilled ribeye, venison, beef with mushrooms and aged hard cheeses. Decanting and further cellar time can help its youthful structure unfold.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96+ Points - The Wine Independent:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"A blend of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon and 21% Merlot, the 2019 Saint-Pierre is deep garnet-purple in color. It gallops out with notes of warm cassis, plum preserves, and candied violets, leading to suggestions of iron ore and cedar chest. The medium to full-bodied palate coats the mouth with expressive black fruits, framed by beautifully fine-grained tannins, finishing on a lingering floral note.\" - Lisa Perrotti-Brown (May 2023)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points – James Suckling:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e“Impressive depth from the 2019 vintage, with a precise feel to the blackberries, black chocolate, graphite and cigar box. Medium to full body, with packed, super fine-grained tannins and an extremely long, layered finish. One of the best from this estate. A blend of 79% cabernet sauvignon and 21% merlot. Drink or hold.” – Zekun Shuai (Aug 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points – Jane Anson's Inside Bordeaux:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e“Violet-edged, with sculpted fruit and an enticing mix of precision and generosity, with classic St Julien balance. Great depth of fruit, crushed rocks, smoked earth, tobacco. Takes time to show itself, but there is sweet blackberry fruit here, and a purity of expression that has clear long-term potential. At this point they were working 15% organic, before switching to 100% the following year. 49% new oak. Harvest September 23 to October 4, Eric Boissenot consultant.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points – Vinous Media:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e“The 2019 Saint-Pierre has a little more intensity and ambition than the Gloria, offering intense blackberry, boysenberry, cedar and pencil box aromas; hints of iodine come through with time. The palate is medium-bodied, dense and saline, with sappy black fruit, fine acidity and hints of black olive lending complexity on the persistent finish. A great Saint-Julien.” – Neal Martin (Dec 2021)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points – Decanter Magazine:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\"Expressive on the nose, so aromatic. The palate is so delicious - dense and structured, powerful and muscular but so well packaged. Uber glamour here. Real depth of flavour with lingering spice from the liquorice and sweet cedar, some bitter dark chocolate, floral touches and even soft savoury truffle aspects too. I love it, chewy almost balancing intensity with freshness and just such clarity that you know it's been well worked. Buy and hold on to.\" – Georgina Hindle (Jan 2022)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points – Jeff Leve, The Wine Cellar Insider:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e“Blackberries, red pit fruits, flowers, tobacco leaf and red currants are the first thing you notice. The wine is soft, fresh and creamy on the palate, leaving you with a wealth of vibrant, lusciously textured, rich, sweet, red and black fruits in the finish. This is a top vintage for Saint Pierre. Drink from 2028-2050.” (Mar 2022)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points – Jeb Dunnuck:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e“I continue to love the wines from this château, and the 2019 Château Saint-Pierre (Saint-Julien) is no exception, revealing a dense purple hue as well as a great nose of ripe blackcurrants, green tobacco, cedar pencil, and chocolate. With rock-solid concentration, medium to full body, ripe yet building tannins, and the vintage’s pure, balanced character, give bottles 4-5 years and it will evolve nicely for 25+.” (Apr 2022)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points – Wine Advocate:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e“A fleshy, sensual wine, the 2019 Saint-Pierre bursts from the glass with aromas of cherries, blackberries, burning embers and subtle spices. Full-bodied, velvety and enveloping, it's seamless and polished, with a sweet core of fruit, melting tannins and succulent acids, concluding with a nicely defined finish. More overtly ripe than its stablemate Gloria, Saint-Pierre must be the most gourmand, immediate wine of Saint-Julien this year, and it's already drinking well on release.” – William Kelley (Apr 2022)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAdditional Wine Advocate Commentary:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Owned by Domaines Martin, Saint-Pierre is situated just to the south of the village of Saint-Julien, on rather homogenous gravel-clay soils mostly clustered around the château—in notable contrast to its stablemate, Gloria, which is dispersed throughout the appellation on a variety of different soil types. This is an inherently riper site than the ensemble that constitutes Gloria, and that shows in a 2019 that's sensual and creamy, with a richer, more polished profile than the more classically proportioned Gloria. Winemaking, however, follows the same principles: vinification in stainless steel tank with regular but small pump-overs and at a rather low temperature of around 25 degrees Celsius, with extraction adapted in function of the maturity and quality of fruit, followed by élevage in barriques that are chosen with increasing exigence. So, if the 2019 is rich and gourmand, it's also supple and judiciously extracted.” – William Kelley (Apr 2022)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"DUCLOT","offers":[{"title":"750 mL","offer_id":67862433530221,"sku":null,"price":94.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/files\/pierre-saint-julien-bottle.jpg?v=1793402625"},{"product_id":"chateau-saint-pierre-2018-saint-julien-bordeaux-france","title":"Chateau Saint-Pierre 2018 (Saint-Julien, Bordeaux, France) - [TWI 96] [VM 95] [WA 95] [WS 95] [DM 95] [JS 95] [JL 95] [JD 94+] [WE 92]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Winery:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eChâteau Saint-Pierre is the smallest Classified Growth in St Julien. It was ranked a Fourth Growth in 1855, but over the next century it was broken up into smaller and smaller parts. It was restored to its original holdings in 1982 by then-owner Henri Martin, proprietor of nearby Château Gloria. Today, his legacy lives on through his son-in-law Jean-Louis Triaud, and Jean-Louis’s own children.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Wine:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis 17-hectare estate is undergoing organic conversion and holds HVE-3 certification. Viticulture follows a bespoke mix of techniques picked up from organics and biodynamics, which Jean-Louis calls “our own system”.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere have been advances in the winery, too. Instead of pumping-over once in the morning and once in the afternoon, there are small pump-overs at hourly intervals, working around the clock. Amphorae are already a fixture of the cellar, and Jean-Louis hopes to reach a 50-50 balance between amphorae and the more traditional new French oak barriques.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 2018 Chateau Saint-Pierre is the grand vin of this Saint-Julien Fourth Growth, part of Domaines Henri Martin. It combines the vintage's ripe fruit and concentration with a firm Cabernet Sauvignon framework.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVineyard \u0026amp; Blend:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe producer records vines averaging 50 years old, rooted in Gunzian gravel over sandy-clay subsoils. The 2018 blend is 77% Cabernet Sauvignon and 23% Merlot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaking:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFermentation follows traditional methods in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats. According to the producer's 2018 technical sheet, maturation lasts 14–16 months in barrels, with 50% new barrels. The wine was bottled in June 2020.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Profile \u0026amp; Food Pairings:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDark cherry and blackcurrant fruit are layered with violet, cedar, spice, tobacco and chocolate impressions. The palate is concentrated and structured, with substantial tannins and persistent fruit. Suggested pairings include roast lamb, grilled beef, braised short ribs, venison and mushroom dishes. Cellaring and decanting will help the wine's powerful structure soften.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - The Wine Independent:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Saint-Pierre 2018 has a deep garnet-purple color. It gives up compelling scents of fresh blackcurrants, black cherry compote, and boysenberries, plus touches of star anise, cardamom, and incense, with a waft of wood smoke. Full-bodied, the palate has a plush texture and bags of black fruit, finishing long and fragrant.\" - Lisa Perrotti-Brown (Feb 2023)\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points – Vinous Media:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e“The 2018 Saint-Pierre is even more intense than the Gloria on the nose, actually reminding me of the Léoville Poyferré that I tasted alongside. Copious black cherries, lavender, incense and violet just storm from the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy black fruit laced with cedar and charcoal. Delivering wonderful delineation and focus and a disarming silky finish, this fulfills the promise that it showed from barrel. An outstanding Saint-Julien that should age well over the next 20-30 years.” – Neal Martin (Jan 2021)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points – Wine Advocate:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\"Composed of 77% Cabernet Sauvignon and 23% Merlot, the 2018 Saint-Pierre bursts from the glass with a glorious perfume of kirsch, blackcurrant pastilles, black raspberries and cedar chest with hints of red roses, pencil shavings and spice box. The medium to full-bodied palate coats the mouth with velvety tannins and beautifully knit freshness, supporting the generous black and red berry layers, finishing long and perfumed. It needs a good four years for the oak to marry and the fruit to really hit its stride, then should drink a further 20+ years.\" – Lisa Perrotti-Brown (Mar 2021)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points – Wine Spectator:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e“Sports a beam of cassis, plum puree and blackberry sauce running through the middle while roasted applewood, violet and sweet tobacco notes run along the edges. Everything meets and then extends through the finish, with an echo of warm cast iron at the very end. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Best from 2024 through 2038.” – James Molesworth (Mar 2021)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Decanter Magazine:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA St-Julien name that I can't recommend highly enough, Château Saint-Pierre 2018 is extremely architectural in feel, a beautiful, confident, masculine, muscled wine with vertical walls - although it's interesting to note it has slightly lower alcohol than some other St-Juliens. It's intense in its black fruit and charcoal character, rippling with tannins. I am full of admiration for this impressive wine that demands your attention.\" - Jane Anson (Apr 2019)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points – James Suckling:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e“Nice plushness from its cocoa powder, cigar box and fresh, slightly tarry fruit. Round and plump, with almost full body and structured but very fine-grained tannins. Long, ripe but balanced and caressing. A blend of 77% cabernet sauvignon and 23% merlot. Drink or hold.” – Zekun Shuai (Aug 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points – Jeff Leve, The Wine Cellar Insider:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e“Deep in color, the wine kicks off with flowers, smoky currants, spice, espresso and cigar box notes. From there, the richly textured dark red fruits provides layers of lusciously textured, fresh berries and toasty oak. Balanced, elegant and fresh, give this some time to fully come together and allow the oak to fully integrate. The wine was produced from 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot and 6% Cabernet Franc.” (Mar 2021)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94+ Points – Jeb Dunnuck:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e“With an almost Pauillac-like stature and structure, the 2018 Château Saint-Pierre (Saint-Julien) (77% Cabernet Sauvignon and 23% Merlot) offers a powerful bouquet of black currants, lead pencil, spicy oak, and chocolate and shows more earth and tobacco as it sits in the glass. Deeply hued, full-bodied, and concentrated, it has a stacked mid-palate, building tannins, and one heck of a great finish. It needs to be forgotten for 7-8 years and will keep for 2-3 decades.” – Jeb Dunnuck (Mar 2021)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points – Wine Enthusiast:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e“This firm wine shows layers of tannins as well as the warm, rich black fruits typical of the vintage. Black-currant flavors along with the tannins give a dense wine with aging potential. Drink from 2026.” – Roger Voss (May 2021)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"DUCLOT","offers":[{"title":"750 mL","offer_id":67862433595757,"sku":null,"price":89.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/files\/pierre-saint-julien-bottle.jpg?v=1793402625"},{"product_id":"chateau-saint-pierre-esprit-de-saint-pierre-2015-saint-julien-bordeaux-france","title":"Chateau Saint-Pierre \"Esprit de Saint-Pierre\" 2015 (Saint-Julien, Bordeaux, France)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Winery:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eChâteau Saint-Pierre is the smallest Classified Growth in St Julien. It was ranked a Fourth Growth in 1855, but over the next century it was broken up into smaller and smaller parts. It was restored to its original holdings in 1982 by then-owner Henri Martin, proprietor of nearby Château Gloria. Today, his legacy lives on through his son-in-law Jean-Louis Triaud, and Jean-Louis’s own children.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Wine:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis 17-hectare estate is undergoing organic conversion and holds HVE-3 certification. Viticulture follows a bespoke mix of techniques picked up from organics and biodynamics, which Jean-Louis calls “our own system”.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere have been advances in the winery, too. Instead of pumping-over once in the morning and once in the afternoon, there are small pump-overs at hourly intervals, working around the clock. Amphorae are already a fixture of the cellar, and Jean-Louis hopes to reach a 50-50 balance between amphorae and the more traditional new French oak barriques.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Wine:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEsprit de Saint-Pierre is the second wine of Chateau Saint-Pierre, the Saint-Julien Fourth Growth within Domaines Henri Martin. It offers an approachable expression of the estate's Cabernet-led Bordeaux style.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVineyard:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEsprit comes from the estate's youngest vines and is intended for earlier enjoyment. Saint-Pierre's vineyards lie in Saint-Julien on Bordeaux's Left Bank. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc shape this 2015 bottling's classic Left Bank character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaking:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe estate uses traditional fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats and follows the same careful winemaking philosophy across its wines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Profile \u0026amp; Food Pairings:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOffers blackberry and currant fruit with tobacco, earthy mineral tones, plum and brown spice. Supple tannins and a persistent finish suggest pairings such as roast lamb, steak frites, duck, braised beef and mushrooms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWine Advocate:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\"The 2015 Esprit de Saint-Pierre is medium garnet-purple with a nose of crushed black plums and black berries with tar, leather and pencil shavings scents. The medium-bodied palate is firm and chewy with an herbal lift on the finish.\" - Lisa Perrotti-Brown (Feb 2018)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"DUCLOT","offers":[{"title":"750 mL","offer_id":67862433661293,"sku":null,"price":64.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/files\/esprit-saint-julien-bottle.jpg?v=1793402639"}],"url":"https:\/\/artisan.wine\/collections\/thursday-11-12-stars-of-saint-julien-masterclass.oembed","provider":"Artisan W\u0026S","version":"1.0","type":"link"}