Le Petit Caillou by Château Ducru-Beaucaillou, Saint-Julien

Key characteristics:

Le Petit Caillou by Château Ducru-Beaucaillou, Saint-Julien is an approachable and fruit-driven red wine that offers a delightful introduction to the esteemed terroir and winemaking prowess of its prestigious Saint-Julien estate. Crafted by the same dedicated team behind the Grand Vin, this wine showcases the estate’s character and finesse, often made from younger vines or specific plots, providing exceptional value and immediate pleasure.

Tasting Notes:

• Variety: 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot
• Appearance: Deep garnet color.
• Aroma: Aromas of crushed blackberries, cassis, and black soil, accented by hints of tar and dried herbs.
• Taste: Medium-bodied with firm and chewy tannins, a lively backbone, and a herbal lift to the finish. Voluptuous and forward, offering notable intensity, breadth and volume.
• Region: Saint-Julien, Bordeaux, known for its unique terroir of “beautiful stones” (beaucaillou) – gravelly soils with quartz pebbles that ensure excellent drainage and reflect sunlight, contributing to the signature elegance and balance of its wines. The estate’s proximity to the Gironde estuary also provides a unique microclimate, moderating temperatures and protecting against frost.
• Pairing: Its approachable, fruit-driven style pairs well with roast lamb, beef Wellington, duck breast, grilled vegetables and aged cheeses such as mature cheddar or Roquefort.

Overall impression:

This wine delivers a harmonious balance of vibrant fruit and structured elegance, embodying the quintessential Saint-Julien style with remarkable intensity and a satisfying, herbal-laced finish. It is a testament to the meticulous winemaking that allows for both youthful enjoyment and the promise of further evolution.

Extra notes:

• Château Ducru-Beaucaillou holds the prestigious title of a Second Growth (Deuxième Grand Cru Classé) in the historic 1855 Bordeaux Classification, a testament to its consistent quality and renown.
• The name “Beaucaillou” literally translates to “beautiful stones,” a direct reference to the distinctive gravelly soils of the vineyard that are crucial to the character and quality of the wines produced here.