S located on the right bank of the Dordogne in the wine region of Bordeaux , the Saint-Émilion appellation is one of the most famous and prestigious in France. Known for its red wines, The Libourne AOC symbolises excellence and French wine-making expertise in all its splendour.
This one therefore deserves a whole article in order to detail its history, its terroirs and grape varieties and of course its wines, including its famous Great Growths . After reading this, you will know everything about Saint-Émilion!
History of the AOC Saint-Emilion
The wine history of Saint-Émilion begins more than 2,000 years The first traces of wine in the region (amphorae) date back to 56 BC.
A little over a century later, the Roman emperor Domitius decided to favor Italian wines and therefore had many vines in the region uprooted. It was not until the 3rd century that the expansion of the vineyard resumed thanks to the emperor Probus .
HAS there fall of the roman empire , and as in almost all regions of France, it is the Christianity which will allow a certain conservation of the vineyards thanks to its use during masses.
At the end of the 8th century , the local village of Ascumbas takes the current name of Saint-Émilion in homage to the Breton monk Emilion , known for his great charity and having ended his life in the region.
Then, at 12th century , under the impetus of Plantagenets (kings of England and especially dukes of Aquitaine during the period), local wines were easily exported to England, thus promoting solid growth in the vineyard.
L the creation of the Saint-Emilion Jurade in 1199 by John Lackland is also a key moment. This brotherhood will in fact ensure the regulation and promotion of the region's wines, thus contributing to the growing reputation of Saint-Émilion wines.
THE 18th and 19th centuries will witness major technological progress which will have a considerable influence on the quality of wines.
In 1936 , the Saint-Émilion appellation was officially created to protect regional wine production and in 1948, the Jurade, which was dissolved during the Revolution, rises from its ashes to continue its primary mission: to promote Saint-Émilion wines in France and internationally.
Another notable fact is the classification of the Grands Crus of Saint-Émilion is created in 1955 ...but we will come back to this in more detail a little further down.
Covering 5,400 hectares , the AOC Saint-Émilion is today has become an absolute reference for all lovers of great wines . Finesse, elegance and complexity characterize these latter and make French winemaking know-how shine throughout the world.
The soils and climate of the Saint-Émilion appellation
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Saint-Émilion benefits from a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by mild winters and hot summers, with a moderating influence from the Dordogne. This climate allows for a slow and regular maturation of the grapes, promoting a good concentration of aromas and a balanced tannic structure. The precipitation, well distributed throughout the year, ensures a regular water supply to the vines, essential for the quality of the wines.
The diversity of soils is one of the great riches of Saint-Émilion. There are mainly four types of terroirs:
- Starfish limestones : located on the plateau, these poor and well-drained soils produce fine and elegant wines.
- The molasses of Fronsadais : these clay-limestone soils bring structure and power to the wines.
- The serious : present in low-lying areas, they promote the production of complex and aromatic wines.
- The sands : on the outskirts of the appellation, these soils produce more supple and fruity wines.
Main areas and villages
The Saint-Émilion appellation is divided into several wine-growing areas, each with its own distinct characteristics. The main producing villages include Saint-Émilion, Saint-Christophe-des-Bardes, Saint-Sulpice-de-Faleyrens, Vignonet and Saint-Laurent-des-Combes. Each of these villages contributes to the diversity and richness of the appellation's wines.
AOC wines Saint-Emilion
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Types of wines and grape varieties used
Saint-Émilion wines are exclusively red wines, produced mainly from three grape varieties: Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Merlot, which represents around 60 to 70% of the grape varieties, brings roundness, suppleness and aromas of ripe fruit. Cabernet Franc, often around 25 to 30%, contributes to the tannic structure and aromatic complexity, with notes of flowers and spices. Cabernet Sauvignon, although a minority, adds a touch of robustness and aging potential.
Styles and features
Saint-Émilion wines are renowned for their depth and complexity. When young, they have aromas of red and black fruits, plum, cassis and cherry, accompanied by floral and spicy notes. With age, these wines develop tertiary aromas of truffle, leather, tobacco and undergrowth. The majority of the appellation's wines are aged in oak barrels, which adds notes of vanilla, toast and chocolate.
These wines are often suitable for laying down, with an aging potential of 10 to 20 years, or even more for the grands crus. They are characterized by a beautiful tannic structure, balanced acidity and a remarkable length in the mouth.
The AOC "Saint-Émilion Grand Cru"
The "Saint-Émilion Grand Cru" appellation is distinguished from the simple appellation by stricter requirements in terms of yield, grape maturity and aging. To obtain this designation, the wines must be aged for at least 12 months before marketing. This distinction guarantees superior quality, often synonymous with greater complexity and aging capacity.
What are the Grands Crus of Saint-Émilion (classification)?
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The 2022 ranking
The Saint-Émilion classification, revised every ten years, is unique in the French wine landscape. It distinguishes wines into three categories: Grand Cru Classé, Premier Grand Cru Classé B, and Premier Grand Cru Classé A. The latest classification in 2022 confirmed this hierarchy, despite some controversy.
List of Premier Grands Crus Classés A (2022):
- Pavia Castle
- Angelus Castle
- Figeac Castle
List of Premier Grands Crus Classés B:
- Beau-Sejour Bécot Castle
- Beausejour Castle (Duffau-Lagarrosse)
- Belair-Monange Castle
- Castle Canon
- Canon-la-Gaffeliere Castle
- La Gaffeliere Castle
- Larcis-Ducasse Castle
- Pavie-Macquin Castle
- Troplong-Mondot Castle
- Trotte Vieille Castle
- Valandraud Castle
List of Grands Crus Classés:
- This list is long and includes many areas, each with its own particularities and specific terroirs.
Controversies and specificities
The Saint-Émilion classification has always been controversial. The departure of Châteaux Cheval Blanc and Ausone in 2022, which refused to participate in the classification, sparked a major debate in the wine world. These prestigious estates questioned the relevance and rigor of the classification criteria, arguing that their reputation and the quality of their wines spoke for themselves.
That eat with a Saint-Émilion wine ?
Saint-Émilion wines, with their tannic structure and aromatic complexity, lend themselves to many food and wine pairings. Here are some examples of perfect pairings:
- Red meats : Grilled beef ribs, roast leg of lamb or duck breasts blend harmoniously with the tannins and power of Saint-Émilion wines.
- Game : Game dishes with feathers or fur, such as pheasant or venison, are enhanced by the aromatic richness and depth of the grands crus.
- Cheeses : Hard, mature cheeses, such as Comté or Parmesan, pair perfectly with the evolved notes of old vintages.
- Dishes in sauce : Daubes, civets and other simmered dishes find a magnificent echo in the complexity of Saint-Émilion wines.
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What are the best wines of Saint-Émilion? ?
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In conclusion, the wines of Saint-Émilion are distinguished by their history, diversity and exceptional quality. Among the notable estates, Château Leydet-Valentin and Château Trotte Vieille deserve special mention. Château Leydet-Valentin, with its elegant and well-structured wines, offers a beautiful expression of the Saint-Émilion terroir. Château Trotte Vieille, classified Premier Grand Cru Classé B, is renowned for its complex and long-lived wines, perfectly embodying the excellence of the appellation.
Thus, Saint-Émilion continues to fascinate wine lovers from all over the world with its refined wines, its historical heritage and its exceptional terroir. Whether for immediate tasting or for prolonged aging, the wines of Saint-Émilion are an invitation to discover the French art of living.
