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.

The 2019 Talbot Bordeaux Blend from St Julien, Bordeaux, France is a captivating red wine that showcases the exceptional quality of the vintage. With a deep ruby color that glistens in the glass, this wine is a visual delight that sets the stage for the sensory experience to come.

On the nose, the wine reveals an enticing bouquet of ripe redcurrants and plums, intertwined with delicate violet and floral notes. These aromas are accompanied by subtle hints of other flowers, adding complexity and depth to the aromatic profile. It is a captivating display that invites exploration.

Upon the first sip, the wine impresses with its full-bodied structure and firm, polished tannins. The tannins are ripe yet firm, providing a solid backbone that supports the pure fruit flavors. The center-palate is particularly noteworthy, showcasing a pretty and well-defined expression of the fruit. The finish is chewy and persistent, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.

This wine possesses great aging potential and will reward those who exercise patience. It is recommended to cellar this wine for at least five or six years to allow it to fully evolve and reveal its true potential. The best drinking window for this wine is projected to be after 2026, but it has the potential to continue developing and aging gracefully for many years beyond that.

Renowned wine critics have also recognized the excellence of the 2019 Talbot. James Suckling awarded it an impressive score of 95 points, praising the pure fruit and recommending patience for optimal enjoyment. Decanter awarded it 93 points, highlighting its expressive nose and appealing freshness. Vinous also gave it a score of 94 points, noting its classic Saint-Julien characteristics and predicting a stylish aging potential.

Overall, the 2019 Talbot Bordeaux Blend is a wine of exceptional quality and finesse. With its beautiful aromatics, well-structured palate, and notable aging potential, it is a true gem from the esteemed St Julien appellation in Bordeaux. Whether enjoyed now or laid down for future enjoyment, this wine is sure to impress even the most discerning wine enthusiasts.