Talbot 2019

The 2019 Talbot is performing well, opening in the glass with aromas of earthy cassis, plums, burning embers and pencil shavings. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and succulent, with powdery tannins, lively acids and a savory finish, it's Jean-Michel Laporte's second vintage at this sleeping giant of Saint-Julien. This will be an estate to watch closely going forward. Drink 2027-2055

Of this estate's 110 hectares, occupying one large block, 94 are planted to red varieties. The grand vin consistently derives from the plateau's higher-altitude gravel soils, but other parcels make a contribution in some vintages (Talbot also own a solitary one-hectare block within the heart of Gruaud Larose that they are reluctant to part with). Historically, the density of plantation at Talbot was always rather low—because it was ploughed by oxen rather than by horse, Jean-Michel Laporte speculates—but new plantings these days are at 8,000 vines per hectare, with Merlot being replaced by Cabernet Sauvignon in the deep gravels. In 2006, modernization began, with lower yields, a later harvest and war on Brettanomyces (almost a house signature in the past). Laporte, formerly winemaker of Pomerol's La Conseillante, has continued his predecessor's work and seeks to bring a bit more mid-palate volume to the wine, increasing somewhat the percentage of new oak to 60%. 2019 is his second vintage at Talbot, and it's certainly impressive. Anyone who has tasted wines such as the 1945, 1982 and 1986 knows what Talbot can achieve, so this is clearly an estate to watch.

The 2019 Talbot was one of the best recent vintages that I had tasted when a sample was sent to me last year, in no small part thanks to the appointment of Jean-Michel Laporte. The 2019 has a large proportion (69%) of Cabernet Sauvignon, higher than previous vintages. Bottled in May 2021, it retains that delineated, focused bouquet of blackberry scents and touches of pencil lead, hints of raspberry and cedar. Just classic Saint-Julien. The palate is medium-bodied with very fine tannins and a superb line of acidity. Much more cohesive with more substance than prior vintages. There is a touch of spiciness toward the lingering finish, which reveals tobacco and gravel-like notes. Talbot made a great wine in 2019 and it will age with style. 14.1% alcohol 2026 - 2055

The 2019 is a blend of 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot, which represents the highest proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon in recent years. Talbot is often a little reticent at such a young stage and so it proved at this tasting, but there is excellent underlying quality here for those looking to lay down wines for ageing. Deep purple colour, slightly closed on the nose but with hints of pure black fruit slowly revealing themselves in the glass. There is an array of spice bursting to get out but for now the aromas are tight. It is on the palate this wine shows its class. A tightly wound ball of fruit reveals pure, unforced and elegant blackcurrant, dark cherry and plum. The tannins envelop everything for now, but they are fine, ripe and well managed. This is a wine of great potential, with savoury depth and a very long finish. Give this time and patience will be rewarded.

Ripe redcurrants and plums with violet and other flowers on the nose. Full-bodied with firm, polished tannins that are ripe yet firm. Pure fruit here. Pretty center-palate. Chewy finish. Give this at least five or six years to come around. Best after 2026.

Casting a deep garnet-purple color, the 2019 Talbot leaps from the glass with vibrant notions of crushed blackberries, boysenberries and ripe blackcurrants plus hints of pencil shavings, cardamom, incense and Ceylon tea. Medium-bodied, the palate is refreshing and nicely balanced, featuring a good core of crunchy black fruit and soft, approachable tannins, finishing with earthy restraint. 2023 - 2040

Such precision and elegance, showcasing savoury blue fruits and a ton of Cabernet signature, Just a hugely classic and brilliant Talbot, and one where it is stretching its muscles, standing up to take its place among the great St Juliens. This is the best for me in the line up, with clear ageing potential, liqourice and rich blueberry and blackberry fruits with waves of cinnamon, cocoa bean, cloves edging, and smoked coffee beans. 60% new oak for ageing, Jean-Michel Laporte director. Drink 2026-2044.

Tasted blind. Well-knit nose and a very sweet start. Easy to like, but quite evolved. 13.5%
Drink 2027
– 2040

The 2019 is a blend of 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot, which represents the highest proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon in recent years. There was a move to more extraction earlier in the fermentation, with the aim to increase roundness and power in the mid-palate. The yield is 46hl/ha, which is similar to 2018. The wine will spend 16 months in 60% new French oak. Deep ruby in colour, with cassis and liquorice on the nose. The palate is fresher, with fresh blackcurrant forming the base of a lithe and vibrant fruit core. The tannins are chalky but well integrated, allowing the fruit to shine. A well-proportioned and harmonious Talbot that focuses on balance over concentration. Long and savoury on the finish. Jean-Michel Laporte's influence is starting to take effect in the glass with this excellent effort.

The 2019 Château Talbot is straight-up impressive, sporting a dense purple hue as well as a powerful nose of cassis, scorched earth, smoked tobacco, and spicy wood. Rich, black-fruited, medium to full-bodied, and structured, it's a rock-solid, balanced Saint-Julien that will benefit from 4-5 years of bottle age and age for 15-20 years.

Well-built and rather refined for the vintage, with a deep well of red and black currant paste and plum reduction flavors supported by a deeply inlaid iron note, all of which run the length of the wine. Offers subtle savory, tobacco and singed cedar notes that add range, with a savory echo that leaves a mouthwatering feel in the end. Built to cellar. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Best from 2025 through 2040. 23,333 cases made, 1,167 cases imported.

69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot. Barrel sample.
Overt spice and cassis nose. Palate juicy and invigorating. Perhaps a little leaner than some. Firm, grainy tannins provide the structure and finish. (JL)
Drink 2026 – 2038