Clos du Marquis 2021: Sophistication and Freshness from Saint-Julien
Clos du Marquis comes from Domaines Delon’s own vineyards in Saint-Julien. Although the wine is often mentioned in the same breath as Château Léoville Las Cases, it is not its second wine. It has its own terroir and distinct identity—an important distinction for lovers of the great wines of the Left Bank.
Origin and Vineyard
The vineyards are located in Saint-Julien, where gravelly soils and Cabernet Sauvignon play a significant role. The wine is linked to the history of the Delon family, but differs from Léoville Las Cases due to its distinct origin. This makes comparing the two wines and their various vintages particularly interesting.
The Story of the Vintage
The cool and damp growing season of 2021 presented winemakers with difficult choices. Careful selection and attention to ripeness were key. In Clos du Marquis, this is reflected in a fresher, more understated style that clearly differs from warmer vintages.
Character and Development
Red currant, cherry, graphite, and subtle spiciness define the bouquet. Delicate tannins provide structure and a lively tension. With further bottle aging, notes of cedar, tobacco, and earthiness may emerge. The balance between fruit, acidity, and tannins determines how elegantly the wine will develop in the coming years. When stored carefully, the wine’s complexity will gradually unfold.
Saving, Opening, and Combining
Serve this Saint-Julien with lamb, roast beef, or a dish featuring mushrooms. After opening the bottle, let the wine breathe in the glass for a moment, then decide whether decanting is necessary. Serving the wine at too high a temperature can diminish its refinement.
Store the bottle in a cool, dark place at a stable temperature. Sediment may form in older Bordeaux wines. If this happens, stand the bottle upright beforehand and pour carefully. The condition of each individual bottle remains important for the final tasting experience.
Discover more
See also 2017 Clos du Marquis and discover the others Wines from Port2Port.
