Berry Bros – Released: 2019 Ch. Talbot, St. Julien
Berry Bros. & Rudd now have the new release of 2019 Ch. Talbot to kick off what looks like another exciting week of En Primeur releases.
Named after Sir John Talbot, Governor of Aquitaine, Earl of Shrewsbury, Ch. Talbot has always been a firm favourite. After the defeat at the Battle of Castillon in 1453, the British Crown’s control over the property was relinquished back to the French. Since the early 20th century, the estate has been in the capable hands of the Cordier family who have maintained the consistent quality that Ch. Talbot is known for.
The Château sprawls across the St Julien appellation with 110 hectares of vines planted around the property. Here you find the typical Médoc gravel covering deep limestone, fossil-rich soils, which is where Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot feel most at home. This 4th Growth estate epitomizes the balance and finesse of St. Julien wines.
Ch. Talbot has always been a reliable option for the cellar but with the appointment of Jean-Michel Laporte in 2018, whose previous role was Director at Ch. Conseillante in Pomerol, we are seeing more refinement and polish in the Grand Vin each year. Jane Anson agrees mentioning that in 2019, Ch. Talbot ‘continues the run of good vintages.’
Released with an 18% reduction upon last year’s 2018 price (£258 per 6). Ch. Talbot is now better than ever before and this should be considered a very good buy.
The market prices of past vintages below, demonstrate the consistent demand for the Château and demonstrate why buying at first release makes a great deal of sense.
2019 Ch. Talbot, St. Julien
£210 per 6 bottle case in bond
£219 per 12 half bottle case in bond
£216 per 3 magnum case in bond
£170 per Double Magnum (3l) in bond
£318 per Imperial (6l) in bond
£500 per Salmanazar (9l) in bond
“The Cordier family’s 100th vintage at Talbot also sees the highest ever percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend, at 69%. Jean-Michel Laporte considers it, his second vintage, an exercise in “mastered power”. There is lots to admire – the fruit has lovely energy and bounces across the palate. A very good Talbot indeed. Drink 2027-2042.”
Berry Bros. & Rudd
‘’St Julien’s largest property at 110ha (up there with Lagrange if you’re keeping track), this has lovely plump black fruits on the nose. Takes hold right from the start, with clear tannic build and a silky character to the tannins. This continues the run of good vintages that Talbot has been producing since 2016. Well balanced, with plenty of St Julien character. Tasted twice two weeks apart. Highest ever level of Cabernet Sauvignon at the estate. Harvest 19 September to 8 October. 60% new oak. Drinking Window 2026 – 2040.’’
93/100 Jane Anson, Decanter
‘’A juicy, fruity wine with lots of blue fruit, blackberries and dark chocolate. Pretty depth and structure to this. Polished and structured at the same time.’’
94-95/100 James Suckling
