Saint Pierre 2017

Just as it was from barrel, the 2017 Saint-Pierre is arrestingly beautiful. Black cherry, plum, graphite, spice, new leather, licorice and smoke infuse the 2017 with tons of character. Readers will find a bold, unctuous Saint-Julien bursting at the seams with personality. As always, Saint-Pierre is a dark, brooding Saint-Julien that shows the more virile side of the appellation off to great effect.

Cloves, black pepper, damson, oak swirl and vanilla bean, definitely a more complex and confident nose than many - and the profusion of aromatics adds layers to the wine but doesn't overpower. As the wine opens in the glass, you get attractive raspberry and cassis notes, and an uplift or crushed mint freshness held together with fine tannins. Far from a blockbuster year in St-Julien but this is one of the best; impressive En Primeur and moving up a notch at this point.

The 2017 Saint-Pierre is medium to deep garnet-purple in color. It leaps from the glass with notes of crushed blackberries, juicy black plums, and mulberries, plus suggestions of wild sage, pencil shavings, and lavender. Medium-bodied, the palate is coated with bright, crunchy black fruits, framed by grainy tannins and lovely freshness, finishing long and earthy. Nice

From an estate owned by the same family as Chateau Gloria, the inky hued 2017 Chateau Saint-Pierre (Saint-Julien) is a big, full-bodied, impressive 2017 that has subtle oak as well as lots of cassis, white flowers, burning embers, and charcoal aromas. I love its texture, it has ripe tannins, and it’s just a balanced, complete Saint-Julien that will evolve for 20-25 years. This cuvee is 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc, aged in 50% new oak.

The 2017 Saint-Pierre was cropped 47hl/ha and matured in 50% new oak. It has a very intense bouquet with black cherries, blueberry and violet aromas, quite Margaux like in style. This is floral and inviting, wonderful delineation and focus. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, a fine bead of acidity and harmony, building nicely with a plush and caressing finish. What a superb Saint-Pierre that will give 20+ years of drinking pleasure.

This is more layered and impressive than Gloria this year. Full and focused with structure and length.