Clos du Marquis Saint-Julien 2009

Histoire du domaine 

Created in the early 20th century, **Clos du Marquis** originates from the historic vineyard plots of Château Léoville Las Cases in Saint-Julien. Though often considered the second wine of Léoville Las Cases, Clos du Marquis is in fact a wine in its own right, produced from distinct parcels outside the famed “Grand Enclos,” on gravel-rich soils ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon. Known for its classic Médoc style, Clos du Marquis offers structure, elegance, and excellent aging potential.

Terroir 

The vineyards are located on deep gravel soils with clay sublayers in the Saint-Julien appellation, providing ideal drainage and conditions for Cabernet Sauvignon to thrive. The maritime climate, influenced by the proximity to the Gironde estuary, allows for slow, even ripening, contributing to the balance and aromatic complexity of the wine.

Vinification

The grapes are hand-harvested and carefully sorted. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, followed by aging in French oak barrels (about 50% new) for 18 to 20 months. This traditional Bordeaux winemaking approach ensures structure, depth, and the potential for graceful aging.

Notes de dégustation

The 2009 Clos du Marquis displays deep garnet color with ruby highlights. The nose is expressive and elegant, offering aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, plum, cedar, and graphite, complemented by notes of tobacco, violet, and sweet spices. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, structured, and silky, with ripe, polished tannins and balanced acidity. The long, persistent finish delivers layers of dark fruit, earthiness, and a hint of minerality. A classic Saint-Julien with power and refinement, drinking beautifully now but capable of further aging.

A structured and elegant Bordeaux from an outstanding vintage—balanced, complex, and built for longevity, showing the pedigree of Saint-Julien.

Accords mets-vins

Ideal with grilled ribeye, roast lamb, duck breast, venison, or aged cheeses such as Comté and Parmesan.