2024 Clos du Marquis, St-Julien

The 2024 Clos du Marquis was cropped at 32 hl/ha between September and 25 October 10. It matured in 50% new oak barrels for 16 months. This has an expressive bouquet with blackberry, blueberry and light violet scents that lend it Margaux-like allure. The palate is medium-bodied with a citric entry thanks to the acidity, edgy tannins and more black fruit laced with cedar and graphite toward the finish. Give this three or four years in bottle. This is slightly leaner, but it maintains focus.

The 2024 Clos du Marquis is a very pretty, aromatic Saint-Julien. Crushed flowers, mint, lavender, white pepper and slate give the 2024 an attractive upper register to match its mid-weight, nervy personality. There is a bit of dryness on the finish that hopefully will be resolved with élevage.

A blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that attained 12.9% alcohol, the 2024 Clos du Marquis unwinds in the glass with notes of cassis, iris and pencil shavings, followed by a medium-bodied, taut and incisive palate with good depth and persistence. It's a serious wine, but it will require patience.