Château Talbot St.-Julien 2019

The 2019 harvest was Jean-Michel Laporte’s second vintage as general manager of Château Talbot. One of the primary changes he has made in the vineyard is removing leaves earlier than before (mid-June instead of July), allowing more maturity and aeration, which protects the grape bunches from disease. Vinification adjustments include more pump-overs at the very beginning and fewer at the end, as well as earlier extraction, which he feels avoids dryness and astringency. Lastly, he increased the proportion of new oak slightly, from 50 percent to 60 percent, giving the wine a richer, more sumptuous feel without an overly oaky flavor.

Tasting Note

Well-built and rather refined for the vintage, with a deep well of red and black currant paste and plum reduction flavors supported by a deeply inlaid iron note, all of which run the length of the wine. Offers subtle savory, tobacco and singed cedar notes that add range, with a savory echo that leaves a mouthwatering feel in the end. Built to cellar. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Best from 2025 through 2040. 23,333 cases made.—James Molesworth