Get to know: Chateau Talbot St Julien 2009
Tasting Note
Bold, polished, and packed with Left Bank charm – a standout claret from a legendary vintage.
The 2009 Château Talbot is rich, ripe, and utterly seductive – classic Saint-Julien turned up a notch. Expect plush aromas of blackcurrant compote, dark plum, and crushed violets, with hints of cedar, graphite, cigar box, and spice. On the palate, it’s generous and full-bodied, with silky tannins, juicy black fruit, and a polished finish that hums with warmth and depth.
Top food pairings:
- Roast lamb shoulder with rosemary and garlic
- Vegan aubergine parmigiana
- Cheese: Aged cheddar or Ossau-Iraty
Serving tip: Decant for at least an hour to let the layers unfold – it’s worth the wait.
Kate Says
“2009 is a blockbuster Bordeaux vintage, and this Talbot wears it beautifully. There’s power and polish in equal measure – it’s like your favourite black tie outfit with a bit of swagger. All that dark fruit and plush oak makes it feel generous and luxurious, but there’s still that Saint-Julien structure holding it all together. One to impress, but easy to love.”
Producer Info
Château Talbot, a 4th Growth from the 1855 Classification, sits proudly in Saint-Julien, where gravel soils and close proximity to the Gironde estuary help produce structured, age-worthy wines. Long owned by the Cordier family, the estate has a well-earned reputation for consistency, elegance, and longevity.
The 2009 vintage was a warm, dry, and generous year across Bordeaux – considered one of the best in decades. The grapes achieved excellent ripeness and balance, delivering bold wines that are approachable in youth but built for ageing.
Winemaking details:
- Grapes: Predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, with Merlot and a touch of Petit Verdot
- Vinification: Traditional methods, with temperature-controlled fermentation
- Ageing: 16–18 months in French oak (around 50% new)
The warmth of the vintage gives a lush, fruit-forward character, balanced by Talbot’s signature structure and finesse