Clos Saint-Martin is among the smallest classified estates in Saint-Emilion, farming just 1.33 hectares of vines on clay-limestone soils at the heart of the plateau, adjacent to Beauséjour Duffau-Lagarrosse and directly opposite the village cemetery. The tiny size of the estate means all vinification takes place in barrel rather than vat, simply because the volumes are too small for conventional tank fermentation. The wine is a Merlot-dominated blend supplemented with Cabernet Franc and a small proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon.

The 2022 Saint-Emilion vintage was warm and generously endowed, producing wines of ripe concentration and approachable tannin structure across the appellation. At Clos Saint-Martin, the small parcel benefits from its ideal position on the limestone plateau, which provides good drainage even in dry years and ensures the vines retain sufficient root-zone moisture. Barrel fermentation and careful selection from such a tiny estate ensures that only the best fruit reaches the final blend.

Clos Saint-Martin has gained international recognition through its consistent performance at the Grand Cru Classé level, punching above its weight given the minuscule scale of production. The wine's regular appearance in specialist auction catalogues and its inclusion in fine wine portfolios reflects the collector appreciation for this precise and elegantly styled expression of the Saint-Emilion plateau. Very limited production makes allocation the primary route to purchase.

Drink from 2026 to 2035. Pair with roast lamb, beef wellington or black truffle preparations. Decant for one hour before service.

Deep ruby-violet. The nose is racy and fresh with wild blackberry, smoke, spice and a fine graphite thread. The palate is medium-full bodied with firm, well-integrated tannins, fresh acidity and a mineral-driven finish of good length. Classic Saint-Emilion plateau character from a very well-situated parcel.