Saint-Emilion

Introducing the classified growths of the region, Saint-Emilion invites readers into the homes of the Saint-Emilionnais who make some of the most popular and critically acclaimed wines. Since the Romans introduced viticulture to this fertile region, Saint-Emilion has been synonymous with fine wine. The picturesque landscape of the region - made up of plateaus, valleys, Romanesque churches, and a fortified medieval city on a hill - is dotted with more than 10,000 acres of vineyards and dozens of chateaux. Ranging from lavish properties to small manor houses, the chateaux of Saint-Emilion are exceptional among Bordeaux's finest wine properties because so many of the families who own the estates live in them and make the wine themselves. Profiles of the winemakers - which are divided into two sections, the First Great Classified Growths and the Great Classified Growths - describe the history, architecture, and wine of each chateau. This book features more than 70 legendary wine makers who have helped to cement Saint Emilion's fame, including: Cheval Blanc, Grand Corbin, Angelus, and Magdeleine. In addition, interviews with the wine makers and a rich selection of photographs of the estates give a taste of the unique environment and the personalities involved in the production of these superior wines.