The Saint Emilion appellation is one of the most well-known and well-regarded regions of Bordeaux’s right bank. The Saint Emilion Grand Cru section of this appellation is especially noteworthy. Many confuse the Grand Cru section with the Grand Cru classé which ranks producers in different classifications, and unlike the left bank system, updates it continually.
Red Bordeaux of 20+ years of age is a chance to experience the full potential of these venerated styles. The 2000 vintage was a legendary year for Bordeaux red wines, with a warm, dry summer followed by a near-perfect harvest resulting in grapes ideal for crafting expressive and age-worthy wines. After 24 years in bottle, the wines have developed generous bouquets of aromatic leather, black tea, and forest leaves, with well-integrated tannins. The 2000 vintage may mark the last classic representation of Bordeaux reds before the shift towards a richer, more fruit-driven profile, making this vintage all the more precious.
The Saint Emilion Grand Cru is a designated section for premier vineyards and has stricter regulations to ensure quality. Though these restrictions do not apply to Merlot which makes up around 65 percent of the Saint Emilion vineyards. The most significant regulation is that the wine must be stored for an extra 14 months before release.
The Saint Emilion Grand Cru wines are mostly a ‘Bordeaux red blend’ with an emphasis on Merlot. Merlot provides smoothness, finesse, and intense fruit aromas, which are then blended with smaller percentages of other varietals such as Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon for extra balance and structure.
Producers like Château Cheval Blanc, Château Canon, Clos Fourtet, Château Beausejour Duffau-Lagarrosse, Château Magrez Fombrauge and La Mondotte to name a few, are all highly regarded Saint Emilion producers. The prestigious region is home to some of the most expensive bottles in Bordeaux. With similar terroir, climate, and winemaking processes, accessing these bottles for less than $200 gives you the chance to open your palette to Saint Emilion Grand Crus for a fraction of the price.
