Wine with Jimmy: WSET Level 3 - Bordeaux Series (Part 2)

Introduction

• Presenter: Jimmy Smith
• Series: Part 2 of 4 on Bordeaux
• Focus: Saint-Émilion and its classification system
• Importance: Understanding classification systems is crucial for exams

Overview

• Location: Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, Southwestern France
• Cultural Significance: UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Vineyards: 120,000 hectares (90% red, 10% white)

Geography and Wine Styles

• Right Bank of Bordeaux
  • Saint-Émilion located east of Libourne
  • Largest region on the right bank

Key Areas of Saint-Émilion

1. Northwest (Borders Pomerol):

   • Soils: Gravel, limestone
   • Grapes: Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon
   • Notable Wines: Powerful, complex (e.g., Château Cheval Blanc)

2. South and East of Saint-Émilion:

   • Soils: Clay, limestone
   • Grapes: Predominantly Merlot
   • Notable Wines: Prestigious, e.g., Château Ausone

3. Escarpment Area (South):

   • Soils: Sandy
   • Wines: Lighter, generic Saint-Émilion AOC

Grape Varieties

• Merlot
  • Dominant grape
  • Characteristics: Red fruit (cherry, plum, strawberry), softer tannins
  • Oak Aging: 12-18 months

Classification System

• Saint-Émilion Classification
  • Separate from the Left Bank classification
  • Re-evaluated every 10 years (began in 1955)
  • Hierarchical Structure:
    • Saint-Émilion AOC
    • Grand Cru
    • Grand Cru Classé
    • Premier Grand Cru Classé B
    • Premier Grand Cru Classé A (only four châteaux: Cheval Blanc, Ausone, etc.)
  • Assessment: Historical evidence, vineyard prestige, wine tastings

Exam Preparation

• WSET Questions
  • Saint-Émilion's classification is a popular exam topic
  • Understanding classification and grape variety dominance (Merlot, Cabernet Franc)

Conclusion

• Importance of understanding classification system for exams
• Next in series: Left Bank and Cabernet Sauvignon focus

Resources

• Wine with Jimmy E-Learning Portal: winewithjimmy.com
• Social Media: @WineWithJimmy on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook
• Wine Schools: West London, South London, Streatham Wine House
• Invitation to visit London wine schools for classes and events