Chateau Talbot Gran Cru Classe Saint Julien 2015 | 13.5% abv 75cl

66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot

One of the best-known Bordeaux wine estates for the UK, not surprisingly as it takes its name from John Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury, who in 1453 suffered the ignominy of losing the battle, and his life, which led to Bordeaux and its vineyards slipping back into French control after belonging to the British Crown for over 340 years. Over the last century it has been owned by the Cordier family, and the red wine of the estate has enjoyed a reputation of dependability. It is one of the largest estates in the Médoc and its 102 hectare single vineyard is situated inland from the Gironde River and to the west of the hamlet of St-Julien-Beychevelle. Talbot has a reputation for consistency and is one of the most carefully made and reliable of the St-Julien Cru Classé clarets. The best examples are richly aromatic with a bouquet of cedarwood and vanilla scented cassis fruits and with a palate packed with well-delineated, ripe, black fruits and finely integrated tannins. It is classified as a 4ème Cru Classé.

A perfumed bouquet, forward and showing fine hints of cherry jam and Parma Violet. Pronounced style, quite lush and rich, there is a sweet core of fruit, integrated oak and notes of co ee, cherry, liquorice and cedar. The palate is structured, rich and quite fulsome, balanced yet big at the same time. very good wine that will age well.