The smallest of the Saint-Julien crus, Chateau Saint-Pierre was first established in the 17th century, although a number of legacies subsequently led to the property being split up and dispersed. In 1982, through a combination of good luck and tenacity, current proprietor Henri Martin, who owned neighboring Chateau Gloria, was able to put the estate back together the way it had been in 1855, the year of the famous classification.

Ever since, thanks to the investments made by the owners, Saint-Pierre has been acknowledged as a perfect representative of the Grands Crus Classes of the prestigious Saint-Julien appellation. The estate vineyards, located in the middle of the commune of Beychevelle. These, cover 17 hectares which are planted with 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, and 10% Cabernet Franc, on soils of Gunzian gravel over clay and sand, and an average vine age of 50 years.

The grapes for Saint-Pierre’s red wine are picked by hand and vinified in the traditional way in heat-regulated stainless steel vats. The wine then spends 14 to 16 months being aged in casks, half of which are replaced every year. The wine is typically a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc.

The 2016 Chateau Saint Pierre St Julien, a Bordeaux blend from the esteemed region of Bordeaux, France, is a wine that commands attention. With a composition primarily of Cabernet Sauvignon, supplemented by Merlot and Cabernet Franc, it is a red wine that truly encapsulates the essence of its terroir.

On the nose, you are immediately greeted with a powerful, brooding aroma, a complex symphony of smoke, game, licorice, and menthol with a hint of grilled herbs that lend a sense of gravitas. As you take your first sip, you're met with a full-bodied wine that is both firm and chewy. The palate reveals notes of fresh tobacco and blackcurrants, underscored by undertones of hazelnuts and chocolate. This wine is a powerhouse on the palate, demonstrating tremendous depth and exceptional balance.

The dark garnet-purple color of this wine is as captivating as its taste. The 14-month aging in 50% new and 50% one-year-old French oak barrels is evident in the wine’s structure and complexity, adding to its depth and richness. The finish is long and lingering, with a chocolaty note that leaves a lasting impression.

This Saint Julien wine is indeed a sleeper of the Left Bank, with a high alcohol percentage of 13.5 and a cork closure that adds to its traditional charm. The 2016 Chateau Saint Pierre St Julien is a wine that will age gracefully, becoming even more nuanced and exquisite over time. The reviewers' scores of 94 to 97 points indicate the high quality and exceptional craftsmanship of this wine. This is a wine not to be missed, best savored from 2024 onwards.