Château Clos du Marquis: Bordeaux's Hidden Gem

Discovering Château Clos du Marquis

Château Clos du Marquis, a venerable name in the world of Bordeaux wines, is situated in the distinguished Saint-Julien appellation of the Médoc region on Bordeaux’s Left Bank. Renowned for crafting wines of profound structure and complexity, Clos du Marquis is celebrated as one of the finest non-classified growths of Bordeaux.

A Rich Heritage

The history of Château Clos du Marquis dates back to 1902 when the Delon family, proprietors of the esteemed Château Léoville Las Cases, established this distinctive estate. The name Clos du Marquis reflects its origins near the “Petit Clos,” adjacent to the Château de Léoville—the residence of the Marquis de Las Cases. It was envisaged to showcase wines from terroirs distinct from the Léoville Las Cases Enclos. Notably, since 2007, Clos du Marquis has stood on its own, produced from an entirely separate vineyard signifying its autonomous stature.

Terroir and Vineyard Mastery

Spanning approximately 45 hectares, the vineyard of Clos du Marquis resides near some of the Médoc’s prestigious classed growths such as Léoville Poyferré and Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande. The unique terroir, with quaternary gravel soil and humic podzol, confers remarkable drainage and imparts a sublime structural finesse to the wines.

The vineyard is planted with a classic Bordeaux blend, comprising predominantly of Cabernet Sauvignon, supported by Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. The combination of soil and microclimate results in grapes that ripen to perfection, embodying the quintessential characteristics of Saint-Julien wines.

Viticulture and Winemaking Excellence

Clos du Marquis upholds meticulous viticulture and winemaking practices. Grapes are hand-harvested to ensure optimal quality. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks, with extended maceration to enrich tannin and color. Aging in oak barrels refines the wine further, striking a delicate balance between fruit and oak influence, leading to a wine that is both refined and complex.

Tasting Notes - A Symphony of Flavors

With its deep garnet hue, Clos du Marquis radiates elegance and allure. The bouquet enthralls with notes of ripe blackcurrant, cedar, and tobacco, underpinned by earthy truffles and minty nuances. On the palate, it reveals a robust body with structured tannins, vibrant acidity, and a remarkably persistent finish.

Each vintage tells a unique story: the 2020 offering entices with crème de cassis and tobacco; while the 2017 vintage unfolds aromas of black fruits and cigar box, embodying a symphony of flavors. These wines are crafted to age gracefully, with cellaring potential extending over decades, maturing to reveal deeper complexity and nuanced aromas.

Acclaim and Collectibility

Critics and wine enthusiasts alike recognize Clos du Marquis for its enduring quality and collectibility. Featuring consistently high ratings, it stands shoulder to shoulder with many classified growths. Its untethered status from the 1855 Bordeaux Classification allows it to remain accessible while offering immense value, positioned among the “Super Seconds” in stature and quality.

Culinary Companionship

Clos du Marquis pairs splendidly with classic roasts, game meats, and aged cheeses. A versatile companion at the dinner table, it thrives with gastronomic indulgences, enhancing richly flavored dishes with its sophisticated profile.

In summary, Château Clos du Marquis encapsulates the elegance of Bordeaux, offering an experience marked by legacy, terroir expression, and unparalleled quality. Embrace this hidden gem—a true reflection of Saint-Julien’s classic allure.