Saint-Emilion

Saint-Emilion

Saint-Emilion is the oldest wine area of the Bordeaux region. The UNESCO organization recognized the great terroir of Saint Emilion and put the site on the World Heritage List (see Dec 2, 1999 report).
Saint Emilion wines are considered the most robust of the Bordeaux. They are generous, very colored, and reach their maturity quicker than other red Bordeaux.

The classification in St-Emilion is complex. Do not confuse St.-Emilion-Grand-Cru and St.-Emilion-Grand-Cru-Classé fewer and much better. Here is the list of Saint-Emilion Great Growths

Saint Emilion wine information:

Appellation: Saint Emilion Grand Cru Classé
Appellation Saint Emilion Grand Cru Controlée
Appellation Saint Emilion Controlée
 
Location:
Dordogne valley

Places:
Saint Emilion and 8 villages around

Soil:
Limestone
Clayey-limestone
Gravels (in Cheval Blanc)
 
Size:
5,500 ha (13,600 acres)

Production:
36 million bottles
Only red wine

Grapes:
Merlot, Cabernet Franc

Type of wine:
Full-body red wine

Best age for a Saint Emilion Wine:
Saint-Emilion AOC: 3 to 8 years
Saint-Emilion Grand Cru: 5 to 12 years
Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Classé: 15 to 25 years and more
 
Vintages:
(recommended)  2003, 2000, 1998, 1995, 1990, 1989, 1982

Aromas:
Truffles
Toasted bread
Cooked red fruits
Saint Emilion and Food: Mushrooms
Bird game
Salmon
Sauerkraut
Spare ribs
Roasted lamb

Saint Emilion and Cheese:
Cantal
Comté
Ossau-Iraty
Reblochon
Tomme de Savoie