Saint-Estèphe
Saint-Estèphe is the northernmost commune of the Médoc, located about fifty kilometres from Bordeaux on the edge of the Gironde estuary. At the heart of the appellation is the village of Saint-Estèphe, around which are located the various wine estates; 61 independent winegrowers, including 5 Grands Crus Classés in 1855, about 15 Cru Bourgeois and 3 Crus Artisans, but also 17 cooperators.
The vineyard covers an area of 1180 ha, which represents about 7.5% of the Médoc vineyard. The 4 grape varieties allowed in the appellation are:
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Merlot
- Cabernet Franc
- Petit-Verdot
The soil is mainly composed of gravel, of different types, to which are added sand and clay, depending on the location. A typical soil that is both rich and very distinctive of the Médoc. The geographical location of the appellation gives it an oceanic climate where sunshine, mixing of winds and sweetness are in perfect harmony. The conditions are ideal for obtaining grapes at perfect maturity. Saint-Estèphe is a Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée of great consistency, where wines are regularly put forward as being among the best, even on so-called complicated vintages. Raced, elegant, with powerful tannins and very delicate touch on the palate, wines know how to taste from their early years and are dedicated to an exceptional age for the best.
From the less renowned motor properties, through the nuggets of the vineyard, the journey to Stéphanoises lands is rich in discoveries.