Wines Saint-Julien La Grange - 2022

Château Lagrange 2022 from Saint-Julien AOC is a classic expression of the Médoc's renowned artistry in producing Bordeaux reds. This wine is traditionally made from a blend dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot and a touch of Petit Verdot, although the precise proportions can vary depending on the vintage. The 2022 vintage benefited from a warm and sunny growing season, contributing to generous ripeness and deeply concentrated fruit. The rigorous selection in both the vineyard and winery, along with ageing in French oak barrels (often around 50% new), imparts structure, finesse, and well-integrated tannins. Expect a bouquet of blackcurrant, cassis, dried herbs and a delicate graphite minerality, opening with time to reveal subtle notes of cedar and tobacco. The palate offers both richness and balance, hallmarks of great Saint-Julien.

Saint-Julien is a jewel of the Médoc, renowned for its gravel-rich soils that provide excellent drainage and foster deep-rooted vines. The proximity to the Gironde estuary tempers extremes of heat and cold, creating an optimally balanced climate for grape maturation. Historically, Saint-Julien enjoys a reputation for producing some of Bordeaux’s most elegant and harmonious wines, often described as a perfect blend of Pauillac’s power and Margaux’s finesse.

As for food pairings, Château Lagrange 2022 shines with roasted or grilled lamb, a Bordeaux classic, complemented by rosemary and garlic. Its structure makes it a superb companion for entrecôte bordelaise, ribeye steak cooked over vine shoots, or more refined dishes such as duck breast with a red wine reduction. Regional cheeses like Ossau-Iraty or Tomme de Savoie pair beautifully, as do wild mushroom-based recipes that highlight the wine’s earthy undertones.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for at least an hour to allow its aromas to open up, and serve at 16-18°C. If cellaring, this vintage promises significant development over the next decade, revealing even greater complexity and harmony with time.