At a glance

Producer

Chateau Talbot

Region

Saint-Julien, Bordeaux, France

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon dominant blend (approx. 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 5-7% Petit Verdot, 2-3% Cabernet Franc)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$70-$90 per 750ml bottle (retail pricing as of 2024 from Wine-Searcher average of multiple reputable merchants)

Tasting profile

Notes of blackcurrant, cedar, tobacco leaf, graphite, and subtle violet aromas; palate shows black fruits, firm tannins, balanced oak spices, and a mineral core

Evolution: Over the next 5-10 years fruit will mellow and integrate, while tertiary notes of leather, forest floor, truffle, and dried herbs develop

At peak: Expect a harmonious balance of plush fruit, silky tannins, and complex secondary/tertiary aromas around peak window

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to moderately high acidity providing freshness and good aging backbone

Tannins

Firm and structured, characteristic of Saint-Julien terroir; tannins are ripe but need some more integration time

Alcohol

Approximately 13.5-14.0%, well integrated

Aging potential

25-30+ years from vintage given quality and vintage reputation

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2026 to 2047

Optimal window

2022 to 2050

Current status

Approaching early maturity, drinking well with some cellaring benefit

Current condition

Currently approachable with integrated tannins but still youthful fruit and structure; best enjoyed decanted

The peak between 2026-2035 reflects the time when tannins fully soften and integrate with fruit and oak, resulting in enhanced complexity, roundness, and length on the palate. After 2035, the fruit will gradually fade, and tertiary notes become dominant; the wine remains enjoyable for years but with less vibrancy.

Food pairing

Classic pairings with grilled red meats, roast lamb, beef stew, game birds, and mushroom dishes; robust cheeses like aged Comté or Gruyère also complement well. As it ages, pair with slow-cooked dishes, earthy flavors, and truffle-infused cuisine.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften youthful tannins and allow complex aromas to open up

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Integrated pest management, soil conservation techniques

Chateau Talbot is a classified growth with traditional viticulture practices and some modernization to reduce environmental impact, but it does not presently hold formal organic/biodynamic certifications.