Chateau Saint Paul 2011

1. Winery Background

Château Saint Paul is located in the Médoc appellation of Bordeaux on the Left Bank. The estate is relatively small compared to some of the more prominent châteaux in the region but is known for producing wines that showcase the classic Médoc terroir. The château is family-run and has a focus on traditional winemaking methods, emphasizing balance, elegance, and the expression of Bordeaux’s famed Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blends.

2. The Producer

Château Saint Paul is produced by a family-owned estate, which carefully manages its vineyard to ensure the highest quality of grapes. The winemaking process at Château Saint Paul reflects the classic traditions of Bordeaux, focusing on showcasing the unique character of the Médoc terroir. The family uses sustainable farming methods to maintain the health of their vineyards.

3. The Vineyard

The vineyards of Château Saint Paul are situated on the Médoc’s gravelly soils, which are ideal for growing Cabernet Sauvignon, the dominant grape variety in this region. The vines benefit from good drainage and sun exposure, allowing the grapes to ripen fully while maintaining freshness. The vineyards also include Merlot and a small percentage of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, typical of Bordeaux blends.

4. The Wine

Château Saint Paul 2011 is a classic Left Bank Bordeaux blend, with Cabernet Sauvignon as the leading grape, supported by Merlot and smaller amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The wine reflects the elegance and structure characteristic of the Médoc region.

5. The Vintage (2011)

The 2011 vintage in Bordeaux was a mixed one, with challenging weather conditions, including a very hot spring and a cooler, wetter summer. While the growing season was difficult, careful vineyard management allowed for wines that are more approachable in their youth, with fresh fruit and balanced acidity. The wines from 2011 are not as structured as some other vintages, but they offer a more restrained and elegant style with good freshness.

6. Vinification and Aging

The grapes are hand-harvested, followed by fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats. After fermentation, the wine is aged in French oak barrels for 12-18 months, with a portion of new oak used to add complexity and depth. The oak aging provides the wine with subtle spice and vanilla notes while allowing the fruit to shine through.

7. The Grapes

• Cabernet Sauvignon (dominant)

• Merlot

• Cabernet Franc

• Petit Verdot

The blend is typical of the Left Bank, with Cabernet Sauvignon providing structure, tannin, and longevity, while Merlot adds roundness and plush fruit. Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot contribute complexity and spice.

8. Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Deep ruby red with garnet reflections.

• Nose: Aromas of blackcurrant, plum, and black cherry, with underlying notes of cedar, graphite, and a touch of spice from the oak. There are also hints of tobacco, leather, and earth.

• Palate: Medium-bodied, with flavors of dark fruits like blackberries and blackcurrants, balanced by fresh acidity and fine-grained tannins. The oak aging adds complexity with notes of vanilla, spice, and a hint of toast. The wine is well-structured, with a balanced and elegant profile.

• Finish: The finish is medium to long, with lingering notes of dark fruit and a touch of minerality.

9. Food and Wine Pairing

Château Saint Paul 2011 pairs well with a variety of classic Bordeaux dishes, especially those that complement its structure and acidity:

• Roast lamb or beef with herbs

• Grilled steak or ribeye

• Duck confit or roast chicken

• Hard cheeses like Comté, Gruyère, or aged Cheddar

• Game meats such as venison or wild boar

• Mushroom-based dishes like mushroom risotto or a savory tart

10. Service

• Serving Temperature: Serve at around 16-18°C (60-64°F) to enhance the wine’s aromatics and structure.

• Decanting: Decant for about 30 minutes before serving to allow the wine to open up and fully reveal its complexity.

11. Storage

• Aging Potential: The 2011 Château Saint Paul is drinking well now due to its balanced acidity and integrated tannins, but it has the potential to age for another 5-7 years, developing more secondary notes of earth, tobacco, and leather with time.

• Storage: Store in a cool, dark place at consistent temperatures (around 12°C/55°F) to ensure optimal aging conditions.

12. Scores

• Wine Enthusiast: 88 points

• Decanter: 89 points

• James Suckling: 88 points

Château Saint Paul 2011 is a fine example of a Médoc wine, offering a classic Bordeaux profile with dark fruit, elegant structure, and a balanced finish. It pairs beautifully with a range of hearty dishes and can be enjoyed now or aged for additional complexity.