A successful 2021 vintage for the Saint-Julien appellation
Located on the left bank of Bordeaux and running along the Gironde estuary, Saint-Julien's 910 hectares of land are composed of 75% draining gravels, favorable conditions for the Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, which make up for almost 65% of the appellation. The 2021 Bordeaux Wine Futures vintage being more of a Cabernet vintage, Saint-Julien has succeeded in producing fine wines during a vintage that required a lot of reactivity and energy.
Difficult weather conditions throughout the vintage but a miraculous end-of-season
The particularity of 2021 was that the season started early and ended late. This extended season brought about many challenges, including the frost in April and the dull, cool, rainy weather that lasted until July. Thanks to the appellation’s proximity to the Gironde, many properties were able to survive the frost without any enduring impacts. However, mildew pressure was a challenge for everyone, but the know-how, the reactivity and the modern tools were all elements that contributed to the production of these high-quality wines. For many, the quality of the 2021 Saint-Julien wine futures was a matter of course. The weather forecast on October 3rd and 4th predicted impressive amounts of rain and at that time, the Cabernet grapes had not yet reached optimum ripeness. Many estates chose to wait, even if it meant losing the entire crop. The gamble finally paid off as this intolerably stressful time passed and the month of October began with sunny days and the harvest was able to take place à la carte, spread out and without haste.
Fine Cabernet Sauvignons
The Left Bank of Bordeaux greatly benefited from this late vintage, and particularly the 2021 Saint-Julien wine futures. The patient Cabernet Sauvignon grapes relished the lengthy end-of-season. Bruno Borie, owner of Chateau Ducru-Beaucaillou, even speaks of an ode to the Cabernet Sauvignon varietal.
What is the profile of the 2021 Saint-Julien wines?
The 2021 Saint-Julien wines are marked by very successful Cabernet Sauvignon grapes which predominantly make up the blend. The appellation’s typical deliciousness, great elegance, fine tannins and an abundance of freshness with notably less power and alcohol than in previous vintages truly shines through. These wines can be enjoyed in their youth and many hold great promise regarding their aging potential.
The finest 2021 Saint-Julien wine futures
Although Saint-Julien does not have a 1er cru classe in 1855 on its territory, there are no less than 11 crus classes in 1855, including five 2nd, two 3rd and four 4th Growths.
After Chateau Léoville Las Cases which is one of the vintage’s greatest triumphs due to its stunningly elegant and complex profile, Chateau Ducru-Beaucaillou also graces us with a high-flying wine.
Chateau Gruaud Larose offers an impressive depth and aromatic persistence, resulting in a very fine ensemble.
Chateau Léoville Barton 2021 celebrates the 200th anniversary of the Barton family at the head of the estate. The tribute is a success, as this wine is the quintessence of elegance. This sophisticated wine perfectly symbolizes the style created by the Barton family, that is recognisable throughout each vintage. Chateau Langoa Barton, a Third Growth Classified in 1855 located right next to Léoville Barton and belonging to the same family, is adorned with a special label for the occasion, which will delight wine lovers and collectors.
Chateaux Léoville Poyferré, Branaire-Ducru and Lagrange are more fine references that you should keep an eye on as they will bring pleasure to lovers of fine Saint-Julien wines.
Lastly, among the great estates to watch out for this year are the iconic Chateau Beychevelle with a bold, oppulent and fine style, Clos du Marquis, which produced a very fine vintage with a great intensity, Chateau Saint-Pierre and Chateau Talbot.
The excellent quality-price ratio of Chateau Gloria 2021, well known among wine lovers, offers a delicious and gourmet profile.
Stable release prices in 2021
As far as the price of the wines is concerned, there is a general consistency in this vintage, even a very slight decrease compared to the 2020 vintage, despite the fact that the volumes marketed are much lower due to the rather low yields. 2021 vintage for Saint-Julien labels will quickly become scarce.
