LES SAINT-ELITES
Terroir of the future from the Saint-Emilion area
Les Saint-Elites is slightly cooler than SaintEmilion, which has historically been seen as something of a handicap. Now, in light of the changing climate, it has become an asset.
Having felt their terroirs remained still too often in the shadow of the Saint-Emilion appellation, eight friends – winegrowers from leading family wineries with references in the communal appellations of Saint-Emilion, Saint-Georges Saint-Emilion, Montagne Saint- Emilion, Puisseguin Saint-Emilion and Lussac Saint-Emilion – chose to create Saint-Elites.
THE SAINT-ELITES TERROIR
In order to demonstrate that they belong to the great terroirs of Saint-Emilion, the Saint-Elites winegrowers commissioned Cornelis van Leeuwen, professor of viticulture and specialist in wine-growing terroirs, to carry out an in-depth scientific study of their terroirs. Inseparable from the vines and from a rigorous selection of grape varieties, the terroir is characterised by three major elements: the soil, the climate and the winegrowers.
THE SOIL
The Saint-Elites appellations are located towards the northernmost part of the Saint-Emilion PDO, with geographical similarities. The constituent elements of the
Saint-Elites soils help to explain the quality of their wines – true gems from the Saint-Emilionnais appellations.
THE CLIMATE
Van Leeuwen’s study of Saint-Elites’ terroir shows that the local appellations of Saint-Emilion are generally a bit cooler than the SaintEmilion and Pomerol appellations. Historically, those lower temperatures were a handicap since the grapes didn’t mature until later in the year – or not at all in unfavorable years. However, in the context of global warming, this has become an advantage because this freshness brings balance and aromatic complexity to wines produced with a dominant Merlot.
THE WINEMAKERS
Facing new challenges, the Saint-Elites winegrowers innovate and adapt. With high standards, precision and patience, each Saint-Elites winemaker works hard to develop wines that express the greatness of their terroir.
Complete study upon request - email: contact@saintelites.com
For more information visit: www.saintelites.com