many of which would be upgraded if another classification replaced the one of 1855. There are, in addition, some very interesting Cru Bourgeois properties which are producing very appealing wine.
Wine
St-Julien produces wine similar to its close neighbour Pauillac. However, the classic St-Julien has an elegant smoothness, without the knockout power of many Pauillac, especially from those Chateaux closer to the commune of Margaux. Typically St-Julien wines are rich, yet balanced, with plenty of body and a wealth of fruit. These wines are often ready to drink relatively young, yet age well, developing a superb, gentle maturity.
Terrain
The wine-growing terrain of St-Julien is exceptional. It is predominantly gravel, although not as deep as Pauillac, with a subsoil of sandstone and clay. Both the gravel and the proximity of most of the Chateaux to the Gironde river allow excellent drainage. This leads to supple wines, and also explains why St-Julien is an excellent choice for the wine lover in a wetter vintage. The sandstone and clay provide more body and richness than found in the lighter soils further south of St-Julien.
The standard of wine-making, and the terrain in St-Julien is top class and this makes it an excellent choice in wetter or poorer years.
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Notable St Julien
Chateaux