Saint Estephe

All the wines from Saint Estephe, Bordeaux

The Saint Estephe designation (PDO) is located 45 km from Bordeaux north of the Pauillac, Saint Julien and Margaux designations. It is probably the least prestigious of these four designations, because it is made up of only 5 Grands Crus Classes in 1855 (classification of Medoc wines), and no 1er Grand Cru Classe. The St Estephe PDO covers approximately 1,230 ha of land which is distinguished by a fairly large geological variety of soils and subsoils. Like many Bordeaux designations, the wines produced there are predominantly blended from Cabernet Sauvignon (typical of the left bank of the Gironde). To this variety is added Merlot, but also Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. In great vintages (and particularly hot ones), the St Estephe designation produces wines unanimously recognized by international critics as being among the best wines of the Medoc. Their reputation for rustic wines had designated them as the most austere, the most tannic and the slowest to evolve from the great Medoc wines. Due to the recent improvement on winemaking methods from many Chateau and a significant growing proportion of Merlot in the blend, Saint Estephe wines are now easier to drink when young. Combining power and richness, with a complex character, these are long-keeping red wines and can be kept for decades in a cellar. As part of food and wine pairings their distinguished profile will go very well with game terrines, duck or lamb...