When Bruno Borie at Château Ducru-Beaucaillou asked Marc Bouffard if he wanted the short or long tour, the answer was immediately clear: the long one. Marc wanted to walk through the vineyards, speak with the team, and understand every step of the winemaking process. Not everyone gets the chance to experience Saint-Julien in this way. That's why he decided to capture his insights in this book, in which he shares his experiences with all eleven Grand Cru Classé châteaux in the appellation. In this way, he helps readers better understand the wines, the people, the vineyards, and the vintages of Saint-Julien.

• An in-depth exploration of one of Bordeaux's most respected appellations, with a clear explanation of why Saint-Julien has such a special reputation
• Conversations with winemakers and owners reveal both history and personal stories
• Each château is discussed with attention to vineyards, cellar and wine philosophy
• Detailed maps by Alessandro Masnaghetti show the main plots and their relationship to the Gironde banks
• A look into the future, where tradition and innovation come together and sustainability takes center stage
• Understanding Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, and how climate, vintage, and style differ by château
• Tasting notes from nearly a century of Saint-Julien, from 1922 to the present, with context and drinking advice
• Written for both curious wine lovers and connoisseurs seeking more depth

'Bouffard transforms the châteaux from distant landmarks into vibrant communities, inviting readers to feel as though they are strolling the vineyards alongside friends.'
William Kelley, Deputy Editor ofThe Wine Advocate