The smallest of the main Left Bank appellations, with only 910 hectares under vine, Saint-Julien stretches from just north of the Margaux appellation and up to the southern border of Pauillac, at the village of Beychevelle. Bordered by forest to the west, Saint-Julien is a rather compact commune (about 3.3 km wide and 5.5 km long) which is packed with quality vineyards and Cru Classe estates. Consistency in quality and style makes Saint Julien a great hunting ground for top class quality but also value Bordeaux. Cabernet Sauvignon dominates the vineyards and is joined by the other classic grape varieties for the Left Bank, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc.
Classification
Close to 85% of Saint-Julien’s vineyards are classified in the 1855 classification. While there are no 1st Growth estates, the commune is rich in very good 2nd Growths and also has 3rd and 4th Growth chateaux.
Key Grape Varieties
These are quintessential clarets, Cabernet Sauvignon dominant with concentrated black fruits, and redolent of dusty tobacco and pencil shaving, along with enticing liquorice and truffle notes.
