We’ve been thrilled at the Perfect Cellar that Château Les Ormes Saint-Julien 2008 has become one of our top 10 selling wines. Not only is it a fabulous wine but it’s also exclusive to us in the U.K. This is based on online sales since the New Year but now we have a retail space as part of the Clerkenwell Collection we’re confident of selling even more.

Saint-Julien lies on the Left-bank of Bordeaux with the river Gironde flowing close by. The soil is predominantly gravel on which Cabernet Sauvignon thrives so it is no surprise to find Château Les Ormes is 60% Cabernet Sauvignon. The remainder is made up of Merlot and it is because of this combination of grapes, along with the terroir, why Saint-Julien is considered to be the most elegant of all the Left-bank appellations.

The quality of the wines in the area speaks for itself with 85% belonging to the Cru Classé. Were Château Les Ormes around back in 1855 when the classification was created it would surely have been languishing in the higher echelons of the list. Owners Fabienne & Philippe Pairault have a hands-on attitude to their wine and are involved in all aspects of its production. From the way the vines grow, to the harvesting and design of the label, which is chic and elegant. They firmly believe in maintaining a total respect for the environment as a way of preserving the area for future generations.

The winemaker at Château Les Ormes is the young and dynamic Diana Garcia-Gonzalez who has set out to make a feminine style of Saint-Julien. She has created a wine of great complexity and finesse that doesn’t have the powerful tannins of some of it’s counterparts, so is easier drinking, approachable and rounded much earlier. You don’t have to wait 20 years before you can enjoy Château Les Ormes, it is ready but it will improve in the bottle over the next decade.

The Cabernet Sauvignon dominant in this wine shows itself with cedar, black fruits and a hint of minty, herby coolness. The palate is tight and grippy meaning it will pair perfectly with red meat dishes, especially steak or barbequed food. The Merlot portion adds an elegance to the robust blend with lots of plummy fruit and supple tannins. Add to this the time spent ageing and the mouthfeel is firm yet rich with a delicate floral finish.

Try it for yourself by purchasing online or visit us at the Clerkenwell Collection.

Many Thanks

The Perfect Cellar Team