Chateau Talbot, in the Saint-Julien appellation of the Medoc, is a fourth growth in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification. Its name originates from Connetable Talbot, a famous English soldier and governor of Guyenne, who was defeated at the battle of Castillon in 1453.

The 107 hectare vineyard is situated on the bank of the Gironde estuary on hilltops of alluvial gravel over a core of fossil-rich limestone. All but five hectares is planted to red wine grapes. The reds of Talbot are dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon (66%) which provides tannic structure and power. With 26% Merlot, the wines become rounder and more suave, while the Petit Verdot provides a delicate touch, like spices in fine cuisine.

The grand vin represents 50 to 60% of the estate’s production. The estate also produces a second wine, le Connetable Talbot, plus Seigneur de Talbot, designated primarily for the Chinese wine market, and one of the oldest white wines in the Medoc, Caillou Blanc.

The grand vin of Talbot is harvested by hand, with vinification in a combination of cone-shaped wooden vats and stainless steel tanks. The wine is aged for 14 months in 50 to 60 percent new barrels originating from eight different coopers. Renowned enologists Jacques Boissenot, Julien Lavenu and Stéphane Derenoncourt consult on the winemaking and blending.

An intoxicating blend of sophistication and sensual allure, the 2015 Talbot Bordeaux Blend is a testament to the elegance of French winemaking. Hailing from the renowned Bordeaux region and more specifically the sub-region of St Julien, this red wine is a seamless symphony of flavors, textures, and aromas.

On first approach, the wine greets you with an inviting nose, filled with a smoky, espresso enriched bouquet, further enhanced with the tantalizing hints of black cherry, licorice, and cassis. This is a wine that evolves, revealing new complexities as it takes in air. As you take that first sip, it opens up to a lush palate of plum and fruitcake. The mesquite, black tea, and melted licorice flavors add an unusual yet delightful twist to the experience.

This red is not only about the immediate sensory pleasure, but also about the promise of what's to come. As the wine matures, it only gets better, evolving from its current state of refined softness to a more rounded, polished finish.

The 2015 Talbot is also praised for its well-balanced nature. The medium-bodied richness is perfectly complemented by a fine bead of acidity, creating a harmonious blend that is both approachable and deep.

Despite its power and concentration, especially evident in its ability to carry plenty of spicy and toasty oak, the wine maintains an elegant finish. The tannins may need some time to soften, but rest assured, from 2020 onwards this wine is set to impress even the most discerning palate.

The 2015 Talbot Bordeaux Blend is a wine of impeccable structure, tannin richness, and promising future fruit development. This is a wine to savor, to ponder over, and to celebrate. It is a wine that truly embodies the spirit of Bordeaux, delivering a drinking experience that is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.