Reviews
- Decanter -
- Jeb Dunnuck -
- Vinous -
- Wine Spectator -
- Jeff Leve -
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- Falstaff -
- Wine Enthusiast -
Technical Details
- France
- Bordeaux
- Right Bank
- Saint-Émilion
- 14.5%
Château Les Grandes Murailles Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé 2019
26% OFF RETAIL!
Planted in the heart of Saint-Émilion, Château Les Grandes Murailles is a tiny, limted-production 1.46-hectare estate on the upper plateau, next door to first-growth Clos Fourtet. Of the 2019 bottling, Jeb Dunnuck says, “This is a hidden gem as always and well worth seeking out!” For such an elegant and expressive 95-point Saint-Émilion priced under $55 here at First Bottle, we have to say we’re in full agreement!
Château Les Grandes Murailles sits on the edge of the village of Saint-Émilion and is rather modestly priced in comparison to its neighbors, even though Michel Rolland was once the long-term consultant, with the wildly talented Philippe Cuvelier now steering the winemaking. It takes its name (translating to “the great walls”) from the single wall that still stands on the estate from a 12th-century Dominican monastery, which was almost completely destroyed in the Hundred Years War.
The vineyard sits right next to the medieval remnant, planted entirely to Merlot atop the region’s famous sandy-clay soils and limestone subsoils. In Bordeaux, it seems Merlot is typically planted on either blue clay or limestone, and this quaint locale is fortunate to have a bit of both. Though the winery has only been around for just over 20 years, the wines that Château Les Grandes Murailles releases have earned a quick and strong reputation for their consistency and premium quality.
The 2019 vintage is no different, and Decanter says it succinctly and best: “A top buy!” Its closest neighbor, Clos Fourtet, usually fetches triple digits for its wines, so to have this for under $55 is a Bordeaux lover’s dream! The 100% Merlot unfurls with deep, dark waves of blue and black berries, with hints of florals and some sweet cigar box, dark chocolate-coated cherries, and dried sage. It’s silky and fresh, with lusciously smooth tannins and lovely layers of character. Les Grandes Murailles wines are known for their youthful approachability, as well as their strong capability to age upwards of 20 years – so this is one to absolutely stock up on for the short term and long haul! As ever, a 6-pack unlocks free shipping!
PAIRING IDEAS: This whole roasted chicken with potatoes and leeks is simple yet elegant, and perfectly flavored to stand up perfectly next to this beautifully classic Saint-Émilion.