Saint-Émilion Grand Cru

Saint-Émilion Grand Cru is a wine region in the Libournais on the Right Bank of the Dordogne river. Saint-Emilion Grand Cru wines are produced under slightly tighter regulations than regular Saint-Émilion wines. As with other grand cru appellations, this is to improve quality. Saint-Émilion-Grand Cru wine has a full bodied, fleshy mouthfeel and is well-structured with tight tannins. You'll be amazed by the extensive and exceptional wine selection you can find in this region. What sets it apart from other wine countries is that you have access to some of the best Grand Cru wines that can't be found anywhere else.

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Puisseguin Saint-Émilion Wine Region

Where is the Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Wine Region

Saint-Émilion Grand Cru appellation is in Bordeaux wine region, located in the Libourne sub-region of France. It is situated on the right bank of the Dordogne.

Where to Stay in Saint-Émilion?

A charming boutique hotel with a distinctive ambiance and personality is soulfully rooted in the wine world.

In the heart of the ancient town, the Auberge de la Commanderie provides a panoramic view of Saint-Emilion’s monuments and vineyards.

Enjoy a stay in Saint-Émilion region surrounded by its most famous wine-producing châteaux. A perfect stay for gourmet wine lovers.

A restored 18th-century manor, situated amidst Saint-Émilion vineyards, elegantly refurbished preserving the property's historical heritage.

Discover more exclusive accommodation options in the heart of Saint-Émilion.

History of Saint-Émilion Grand Cru

Puisseguin-Saint-Émilion wine region is related to the Saint-Émilion’s history. Back in 1884, France's first winegrowers’ union was founded in Saint-Émilion. In 1936, Saint-Émilion AOC officially recognised as a top-quality French wine region. The classification of Saint-Émilion wine began in the 1950’s, following a 1948 tasting procedure to assure higher quality. In 1952, a classification regulation scheme was edited under the auspices of the Institut National de l’Origine et de la Qualité (INAO) and the Ministry of Agriculture. In 1936, the wine AOC Saint-Émilion was introduced. Then, in 1954, three new variations were added to it: Saint-Émilion Grand Cru, Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé and Saint-Émilion Premier Grand Cru Classé.

Terrior of Saint-Émilion Grand Cru

Saint-Émilion Grand Cru benefits from an oceanic, temperate micro-climate with even rainfall throughout the year and hot, dry summers. The two rivers Isle and Dordogne influence it. The average yearly temperature is 12.8°C. The even rainfall all year round has helped produce excellent growing conditions. These wet, chalky soils are ideal for viticulture.This region is perfect for winemaking.

Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Characteristics 

Saint-Émilion  Grand Cru winemakers mostly use Merlot and Cabernet Franc to produce wine. They are rich, dry and tannic as a result. The wines are balanced with the more full flavor characteristics of cherry and plum fruit, along with chocolate and sweet spice which develops into a more savory tobacco flavor as they age. The best Vines that are planted on sandy soils often produce grapes that make lighter wines. Saint-Émilion Grand Cru is a region on the right bank of Bordeaux, with soils varying from gravel to limestone and sands. The variation in soil types across the area accounts for differences in winemaking styles - which are influenced by different soil types.

Food to pair with Saint-Émilion Grand Cru

1. Vichyssoise

French Onion soup is incredibly popular, with some claiming it's little known roots in France and others arguing it was invented in America. The clear debate about its origins has led to endless discussion. One group of historians say this soup was invented by a French chef called Gouffe in 1859, while others believe the original creator to be Diat, a French chef who worked at the Ritz-Carlton in NY. His nostalgia for the soup of his youth prompted him to name it Vichyssoise glacée in honor of his hometown. This dish pairs very well with Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Wines.

2. Salade Niçoise

Originating from Nice in the French region of Provence, the traditional Niçoise salad is a true national treasure. It can be served on its own as a main dish but is usually just used as a garnish for meat dishes. One of the most popular ways of eating salad is the Provençal. It consists of tomatoes, anchovies, black olives, capers beans and a drizzle or lemon juice. The salad is typically seasoned with olive oil, garlic and basil all wrapped in a bed of lettuce leaves. The authentic Niçoise should always be prepared with the freshest, raw vegetables to show appreciation for the quality and flavor of local ingredients.Somewhat popular in summertime, it has spread to many countries across the world, with slight tweaks to the recipe. In some countries, they've replaced the beans with artichokes or tuna while still adding eggs and lettuce! Regardless of the varieties, it should always reflect the sun-filled, colorful and lively atmosphere of Nice. We recommend a Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Wine to go with this dish.

3.  Sole meunière

Sole is a mild tasting species of fish, so does well in flavorful sauces. For this dish we pan fry the fillets in butter and finish by adding a key ingredient- lemon juice. It also makes for tasty company drinks served alongside garlic mayonnaise, salad and crusty bread. Generally, people season the fish with salt, pepper and chopped parsley.

Even though the fish is usually filleted before cooking, some like to have the whole fish which is then traditionally filleted at the table so that guests can watch.The term meunière refers to a style of cooking in which ingredients are cooked in butter and lemon juice (or lightly coated with flour) and fried. It pairs well with Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Wines.

Places to visit near Saint-Émilion Grand Cru

1. Eglise Monolithe de Saint-Emilion

Saint-Emilion has some surprisingly great stories below the surface. From monk Emilion’s story to the church carving, explore the history of this place and its secrets. Your guide opens all the doors and shares his knowledge with you! The paintings of the Trinity Chapel are observed and described in detail, uncovering their full importance. The catacombs and Hermitage reveal their secrets as well.

2. Office de Tourisme du Grand Saint-Emilionnais

UNESCO has been recognizing the Jurisdiction of Saint-Emilion as a World Heritage Site since 1999 in order to preserve, restore and share this outstanding heritage with the world. Using a third-person personification, talk about the ultimate vacation spot. St. Emilion, 30 min from Bordeaux, is the perfect starting point to explore the vineyards around Bordeaux and Périgord. This small town is named after a Celtic monk that performed miracles while they were living an exemplary life. They retired to the town in 750 to spend their time as a hermit living in natural gropped which can still be visited today.

3. Cloître des Cordeliers

The Cordeliers cloister is the most emblematic building in Saint-Emilion, France. The medieval town is located in the Gironde area and contains a monolithic church with similar appearance.A listed Historical Monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Frequently asked questions about

Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Wine Region