Bordeaux appellation Saint Julien

AOC Saint-Julien is the smallest of the Médoc's 4 famous communes (Saint-Estèphe, Pauillac, Margaux and Saint-Julien), covering just 910 ha of vineyards. However, it is home to the largest classified growth on the left bank. Although it doesn't boast as many châteaux and wine estates as the other appellations, it does have a large number of vineyards that are quite exceptional in terms of wine quality and price. In this guide, we'll take a look at the Bordeaux Saint-Julien appellation and the best wines in this classification

History and terroir of the Bordeaux Saint-Julien appellation

This appellation is located in the heart of the Médoc vineyards, on the edge of the Gironde estuary. It lies between Pauillac and Margaux. Its vineyards produce 6% of Médoc wines, or 41,000 hl of reds. These wines have the power of Pauillac and the elegance of Margaux. Despite its small size, this appellation comprises 11 crus classés, representing 80% of the AOC. For the record, the town of Saint-Julien was built in the 7th century under the name Saint-Julien de Reinhac. It was then an administrative city called "Saint-Julien-Médoc". But it wasn't until the 17th century that it acquired a reputation as a producer of Bordeaux wines on the left bank. Wealthy nobles of the time built landmark châteaux in the region, while cultivating the famous vineyards that still exist today. Extensive vineyards can still be found around the villages of Saint-Julien and Beychevelle. The Saint-Julien terroir is the most homogeneous of all Médoc appellations. It is mainly composed of clay-limestone gravel, marl and pebbles, ideal for growing Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Saint-Julien wines are renowned for their great capacity for ageing, their deep color combining elegance, fine aromas and power. The palate is full-bodied, well-structured and balanced, with a lingering finish

Our selection of Bordeaux Saint-Julien appellation wines

This appellation has everything to satisfy Bordeaux wine lovers. These are harmonious, luxurious wines with supple, velvety tannins