Grand Cru Classé (1986)

About this wine

The 1986 Château Talbot from Saint-Julien offers a deep garnet hue and a complex bouquet of blackcurrant, cedar, and subtle earthy notes. On the palate, it presents a harmonious blend of ripe dark fruits, hints of tobacco, and a touch of spice, supported by well-integrated tannins that provide structure without overpowering. This vintage has matured gracefully, showcasing the elegance and balance characteristic of Saint-Julien wines. Notably, 1986 was a standout year for Cabernet Sauvignon in Bordeaux, contributing to the wine's depth and longevity. As a Fourth Growth in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, Château Talbot continues to uphold its reputation for producing wines of consistent quality and aging potential.

About the grape

In the 1986 Château Talbot Grand Cru Classé from Saint-Julien, the primary grape varietals are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. Cabernet Sauvignon, making up about 66% of the blend, thrives in the gravelly soils of the Médoc region, contributing structure and longevity to the wine. Merlot, comprising approximately 26%, adds softness and roundness, balancing the tannic nature of Cabernet Sauvignon. Petit Verdot, at around 5%, is a late-ripening grape that, when fully mature, imparts deep color and spicy notes; its inclusion in Bordeaux blends like this one has seen a resurgence due to its ability to enhance complexity.

Quick facts

• ⚔️ Château Talbot is named after John Talbot, an English commander defeated at the Battle of Castillon in 1453.
• 🏆 The 1986 vintage of Château Talbot is considered one of the estate's finest, receiving a 96-point rating from Robert Parker.
• 🌿 The estate's vineyard spans 107 hectares, making it one of the largest in the Médoc region.
• 🍷 The 1986 Château Talbot is known for its complex aromas of blackcurrant, tobacco, and truffle, reflecting its maturity.
• 🍇 The 1986 vintage is composed of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot, showcasing the classic Bordeaux blend.

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.