Bordeaux Area Vineyards - Saint-Julien - Chateau Saint-Pierre
17th century winemaker
Château Saint-Pierre is a historic estate located in the Saint-Julien appellation of the Bordeaux region, and it carries with it a legacy that dates back to the 17th century. The estate was founded by Baron de Saint-Pierre and over time, it underwent a series of divisions and ownership changes, which was not uncommon for Bordeaux estates due to inheritance laws and family succession.
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Despite its somewhat fragmented history, Château Saint-Pierre holds the distinguished classification as a Fourth Growth (Quatrième Cru) in the Bordeaux Wine Official Classification of 1855. This classification affirms the estate's long-standing reputation for producing wines of high quality.
The vineyards of Château Saint-Pierre cover roughly 17 hectares and are planted predominantly with Cabernet Sauvignon, the grape varietal that defines the structured and robust profile of Saint-Julien wines. Merlot and Cabernet Franc also contribute to the blend, offering nuances of plushness and perfume, respectively. The terroir of Saint-Julien is characterized by gravelly soils, which are excellent for drainage and contribute to the concentration and complexity of the estate's wines.
Under the guidance of Henri Martin and his family since the mid-20th century, Château Saint-Pierre has experienced a renaissance, with significant improvements made to the vineyards and winemaking facilities. The estate has been consolidated, and there has been a renewed focus on quality, precision in viticulture, and meticulous attention to detail in the cellar.
The wines of Château Saint-Pierre are known for their balance, showcasing the quintessential Saint-Julien harmony of power and elegance. They typically exhibit a solid structure, with a rich bouquet of dark fruits, cedar, and spices, complemented by the finesse of tannins and the capacity to age gracefully. The use of oak in the winemaking process is carefully managed to ensure that it enhances rather than overshadows the wine's intrinsic qualities.
Château Saint-Pierre remains a symbol of the classic Bordeaux winemaking tradition, consistently crafting wines that reflect the distinctiveness of the Saint-Julien terroir while embracing the modernity required to maintain excellence. It stands as a testament to the prestige and timeless appeal of the Médoc's wine heritage.