Saint Estephe

The most northerly communal appellation situated along the Gironde Estuary in the Médoc is Saint-Estèphe. The soil here is far from homogenous; the region is comprised of deep gravel, which suits late-ripening vintages well, as well as clay-limestone, the more desirable site when heat arrives early. This commune should be top of mind in hotter vintages thanks to the freshness of the clay subsoil and cooler temperatures in its northerly location. 

The wines of Saint-Estèphe have been known to be rich, robust, and muscular, often with a more rustic tannic structure that needs time in bottle. However, changes in viticulture are leading to wines with elongated, softer tannins. Additionally, there is now a plushness of fruit in the mid-palate making the appellation more accessible in its youth than it ever was. Wines are generally matured for 15-24 months in cask. 

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