Clos du Marquis, Saint Julien 2017
Clos du Marquis, Saint Julien 2017 is a dry, full-bodied red from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc (Saint-Julien, France), in the rich, smooth reds style. Tannins are moderate and acidity fresh; oak influence is noticeable. Good with steak, lamb, roast chicken, roast pork.
| Wine | Sweet | Body | From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Château Branaire-Ducru, 4e cru classé Saint-Julien 2014 Château Branaire-Ducru · Bordeaux | £82.00 | |||
| Château Ducru-Beaucaillou, La Croix de Beaucaillou 2018 Château Ducru-Beaucaillou · Bordeaux | £65.20 | |||
| Almaviva Epu 2021 Almaviva · Maipo Valley | £53.50 | |||
| Ségla, Margaux 2018 Château Rauzan-Ségla · Bordeaux | £49.00 |
Clos du Marquis is a distinguished Saint-Julien estate that embodies the elegance and structure of Left Bank Bordeaux. Originally conceived in 1902 as a second wine of Château Léoville-Las Cases, it has since evolved into a standalone cuvée sourced from exceptional terroirs just west of the historic Léoville domain. Surrounded by prestigious neighbors like Léoville Barton and Pichon Lalande, Clos du Marquis delivers a classic Médoc profile—refined tannins, deep cassis and graphite notes, and impressive ageing potential. Though unclassified, it consistently rivals the region’s top crus in quality and character. A poised and polished expression of Saint-Julien, the 2017 vintage opens with aromas of blackberries, violets, cedar, and Indian spice, underscored by hints of graphite and sweet tobacco. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied, with a refined structure and tight, ripe tannins that frame layers of cassis, plum, and dark chocolate. There's a subtle minerality and freshness that lend lift to the finish, which is long, focused, and classically dry. Crafted from 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, and 1% Cabernet Franc, this wine reflects the precision of its terroir and the pedigree of its origins within the Léoville Las Cases estate. While approachable now with a short decant, it promises graceful evolution over the next two decades. Scores: 17.5/20 Bettane & Desseuave 17/20 Revue du Vin de France 93/100 Vinous/Antonio Galloni 93/100 Wine Advocate/Lisa Perrotti Brown 94/100 James Suckling 94/100 Jeb Dunnuck 91/100 Vinous/Neal Martin 93/100 Wine Spectator/James Molesworth 90/100 Decanter/Jane Anson 17/20 Jancis Robinson/Julia Harding 91/100 The Wine Doctor/Chris Kissack 92-94/100 TimAtkin.com/Rod Smith 94/100 Wine Enthusiast/Roger Voss Clos du Marquis