Saint-Émilion & Saint-Émilion Grand Cru AOC

Question 1

Describe Saint-Émilion AOC

Answer 1

Larger area
produces only red
53 hL/ha (higher vs G Cru)
6 months in oak (vs 20 G Cru)
Merlot dominant 60%
Cab Franc next most grown

Question 2

Describe Saint-Émilion Grand Cru AOC

Answer 2

Lower max yield 46 hL/ha
min maturation time 20 months
Merlot dominant

Question 3

Describe 3 different group of vineyards on different soils

Answer 3

1. Vineyards on plateau to north and west of town - warm, well-drained gravel + limestone
   = Cab Franc + Cab Sav
2. Vineyards on escarpment to south and east with Clay/Limestone = wines with
   Hi Tannins BUT
   soft and rich mouthfeel with complex berry fruit and plum + tobacco + cedar as they evolve
3. Vineyards on sandy soils = lighter bodied, less prestigious

Question 4

Describe the Saint-Emilion Classification system

Answer 4

Applies only to some wines within Grand Cru AOC
Dates back to 1855
Revised 10-Yearly
Reputation + commercial consideration + blind tasting
3-Tiers:
Premier Grand Cru A
Premier Grand Cru B
Grand Cru Classé