2021 Château Saint-Pierre, St Julien, Bordeaux

Cassis notes to the fore. Palate firm and structured, the tannins present offering plenty of drive and persistence. Less St-Julien fruit present but solid, upright, the tannic structure firmly in place. Some potential for ageing.

Drink 2028 - 2040

The 2021 Saint-Pierre Saint-Julien) is tighter and more controlled on the nose compared to the Gloria, which was picked one day later. It feels nicely focused, with a little more mineral tension. The palate is medium-bodied and a bit coarser than the Gloria. Quite dense, with fine grip, driven along by the Cabernet Sauvignon, and fine tannins. Over three samples, it just narrows a little toward the finish, which is missing a bit of heft. Nevertheless, a commendable and classic Saint-Pierre.

Drink 2027 - 2048

The 2021 Saint-Pierre is very pretty, offering up aromas of plums, wild berries, sweet spice box, cigar wrapper and nicely integrated new oak. Medium to full-bodied, ample and layered, it's a charming, fleshy wine with lively acids and fine length on the finish. It's a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc and fully 7% Petit Verdot—the latter having, in fact, been co-planted among Cabernet in some of the estate's older vine holdings, but only formally identified as such now.

Blackcurrant and blackberry aromas and flavors with graphite and licorice. Medium body, fine tannins and a savory finish.

Enjoyable damson and red cherry fruit, sandalwood smoke adds depth though the mid palate, with stretched out tannins studded through with white pepper and turmeric. This is bright and well handled, good structure, firm tannins, austere but finessed. 34hl/h yield, first year organic conversion, Jean-Michel Comme consultant.

Drink 2028 - 2042