▻ St Julien with Jane Anson

10 Minute Masterclass

11 Oct

Written By Sarah Kemp

In conversation with Jane Anson

Episode Summary:-

To begin with, St Julien is one of Bordeaux’s most homogenous appellations in terms of terroir. Jane Anson talks to Sarah Kemp about the appellation she believes is “the appellation where you are most likely to know what you are getting.” It is situated on the Left Bank, and 23 metres above sea level is its highest point, at Château Talbot. Though relatively flat, it does have undulating hills within its 910 hectares. There is more gravel here than in any other Bordeaux appellation: 70% gravel, with some sand, limestone, and clay beneath. One of the reasons that the appellation is so celebrated is that 90% of the vines are classified, with 19 independent winemakers. Here, there are 11 classified growths, five second growths, two third growths and four fourth growths.

Famous names abound, including Châteaux Léoville Barton, Léoville-Las-Cases, Poyferré, Gruard-Larose, Talbot, Lagrange, to name just a few. (Two lesser-known names that Jane recommends wine lovers to look out for are Ch La Bridane and Ch la Fleur Lauga). The main grape planted is Cabernet Sauvignon, at 65%, which is more than in Pauillac, its neighbouring appellation. This is followed by 28% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot. The classic taste is of black fruit, cassis, cigar box.

The price per hectare is similar to the appellation of Margaux, 1.5 to 2 million euros per hectare. Jane’s obscure fact? Since 1855 only three châteaux have stayed in the same family and two of them are in St Julien: Châteaux Léoville Barton and Langoa Barton, both owned by the Barton family.

Running Order:-

0.00 – 6.43

“St Julien has more gravel than any other appellation.”

– St Julien’s size and topography.
– The classified properties of St Julien.
– St Julien’s most famous estates.
– Two small estates to look out for.
6.44 – 10.15

“It is the appellation where you are most likely to know what you are getting.”

– How to identify a wine from St Julien by its tannins.
– Main grapes of the appellation.
– Typical taste of St Julien.
– Jane’s one obscure St Julien fact.