Château Ducru-Beaucaillou - Saint-Julien de Ducru-Beaucaillou 2010

Château Ducru-Beaucaillou, a well-established Second Growth in the 1855 classification, has long been recognized as a "Super Second" and the quintessential embodiment of Saint-Julien's charm. This prestigious estate consistently produces wines that exemplify the powerful yet balanced ripeness that best defines the appellation. With a rich history spanning three centuries and a reputation for quality predating even the 1855 classification, Ducru-Beaucaillou has solidified its position as one of Bordeaux's most illustrious Left Bank properties. Saint-Julien is renowned for the elegance and finesse of its wines, and Ducru-Beaucaillou stands as a prime example of the grandeur born from the appellation's signature gravel soils. The name "Beaucaillou" itself is a tribute to the "beautiful stones" that comprise these soils, providing exceptional drainage and playing a crucial role in shaping the wine's distinctive character. The estate's Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated vineyard, with an average vine age of 35 years, benefits from its proximity to the Gironde estuary, which moderates the microclimate and protects the vines from extreme weather. Among its 185 acres, the Les Sadons plot stands as the heart and soul of Ducru-Beaucaillou, planted as far back as 1918. Its deep gravel soils and close proximity to the Gironde River create an exceptional terroir, ranking among the best in the Médoc.

Slow aging in 100% new French oak barrels for 18 months.

"In comparison to the more showy, sexy 2009, the 2010 Château Ducru-Beaucaillou cuts a very different profile, with a more focused, pure, regal style that will stop any wine lover in their tracks. Pure crème de cassis, graphite, fresh tobacco, and lead pencil (there's an almost Pauillac edge here) define the aromatics, and it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a deep, concentrated, incredibly layered mouthfeel, absolutely perfect tannins, and a great, great finish." - 100 Points, Jeb Dunnuck

"The nose is phenomenal with perfect aromas of Cabernet Sauvignon with currant bush, blackberries and minerals. A pure expression of Cab. The palate is perfect with a full body, but has perfectly integrated tannins with a texture like the finest cashmere. It's strong but noble with perfect form and beauty. All in harmony. A fabulous wine that everyone who loves Bordeaux should have a bottle or case of." - 100 Points, James Suckling

"Compared to the 2009, the Ducru-Beaucaillou 2010 is less profound and powerful, but it has a more lively and fresher bouquet with cedar, dark berries, tar, cherry, and spicy aromas. On the palate, it is full-bodied, deep, and elegantly proportioned but also deliciously juicy, sapid, and long and has a perfectly integrated oak frame. However, it is a bit strict, so 10 or 15 years in the cellar will allow it to chill out." - 98 Points, Decanter

Producer: Château Ducru-Beaucaillou 

Country: France

Region: Bordeaux

Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot

Appellation: Saint-Julien

Vintage: 2010

Size: 750ml