Grand Cru Classé (1988)

About this wine

The 1988 Château Talbot from Saint-Julien presents a deep plum color, indicating its maturity. On the nose, it offers aromas of saddle leather, smoked beef, and tapenade, complemented by hints of vanilla and mocha. The palate reveals moderate tannins that have softened over time, providing a medium-bodied structure with excellent depth. As it has aged, this wine has developed more personality and style than the more renowned 1989 vintage. Château Talbot, classified as a Fourth Growth in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, is known for its consistent quality and longevity, making this vintage a testament to its enduring reputation.

About the grape

In the 1988 Château Talbot Grand Cru Classé from Saint-Julien, the blend prominently features Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. Cabernet Sauvignon, making up about 68% of the vineyard's red grape plantings, is known for its deep color and tannic structure, contributing to the wine's longevity. Merlot, comprising 28%, adds softness and a fruity character, balancing the robustness of Cabernet Sauvignon. Petit Verdot, though only 4% of the vineyard's red varieties, is valued for its deep color and spicy notes, enhancing the wine's complexity. This combination reflects the traditional Bordeaux blending practice, aiming for a harmonious and age-worthy wine.

Quick facts

• ⚔️ Château Talbot's name honors John Talbot, an English commander defeated in the 1453 Battle of Castillon.
• 🍇 The 1988 vintage of Château Talbot is composed of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot, and 3% Cabernet Franc.
• 🪵 The 1988 Château Talbot was aged for approximately 15 months in oak barrels, with 50% being new oak.
• ⏳ The 1988 Château Talbot has been praised for its longevity, with critics noting its freshness and potential for further evolution even decades after its release.
• 🍷 The 1988 Château Talbot has been described as having notes of red berries, plums, green pepper, dark chocolate, and a good streak of acidity.

Palate profile

Producer

Château Talbot, located in the Saint-Julien appellation of Bordeaux, France, is named after Sir John Talbot, an English military commander defeated at the Battle of Castillon in 1453. The estate was classified as a Fourth Growth in the 1855 Bordeaux Wine Official Classification. In 1918, it was acquired by Désiré Cordier, whose family has managed the property for over a century, with Nancy Bignon-Cordier currently overseeing operations. The vineyard spans 110 hectares, making it one of the largest in the Médoc region, and is renowned for producing both red and white wines, including the notable Caillou Blanc, one of the Médoc's oldest dry white wines.