About the Estate & The Wine
The wines of La Croix Ducru-Beaucaillou come from the vineyard of Château Ducru-Beaucaillou. This exceptional Médoc terroir is situated between the Gironde River to the east, the centre and the west of the Saint-Julien appellation. The estate owes its name to its “beautiful pebbles” (“beaux cailloux”, in French) which, because of their high quartz content, make for soils that are poor in plant nutrients.
It is precisely this “agrological” paucity, as the late Bordeaux professor and geographer, René Pijassou, described it, that makes them so well-suited to the production of fine wine. In the east, the plots are planted along the rolling Médoc ridges, just above the estuary, while those at the epicentre benefit from a microclimate nurtured by the little La Mouline stream that meanders through the middle of the appellation from west to east before disappearing into the Gironde.
La Croix Ducru-Beaucaillou is an original expression of the terroirs of Ducru-Beaucaillou, a blend that is one of a kind. Ducru-Beaucaillou’s elitist approach is fully at work here. As is a passion, that of a team dedicated to excellence.
A high-flying wine that perfectly expresses its terroir of exception. This wine blends a high proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon (around 60% each year), completed with Merlot Noir (35% to 37%) as well as a subtly spicy touch of Petit Verdot (3% to 5%).
Powerful, silky, very aromatic, La Croix Ducru-Beaucaillou beguiles with its bouquet, its balance, its remarkable finesse and its lengthy finish. A great cuvée that stimulates, then captivates the senses; it is the perfect introduction to the Borie signature.
Ratings & Tasting Notes
Dutch Wine Apprentice (93/100)
“The 2019 La Croix Ducru-Beaucaillou is a compelling and complete expression of Saint-Julien, demonstrating how a second wine can faithfully reflect the identity of a great estate without sacrificing approachability. It captures the essence of Ducru-Beaucaillou’s style—precision, elegance, and mineral-driven structure—while presenting it in a form that is accessible earlier in its life.
What stands out most is the balance: between fruit and structure, richness and freshness, approachability and seriousness. This is not merely an introduction to the estate, but a wine with its own identity and clear sense of place.
It offers excellent value within the context of classified growth Bordeaux, delivering both immediate pleasure and the potential for further development in bottle. It is equally suited to near-term enjoyment or short- to mid-term cellaring, making it a versatile addition to any cellar.”
James Suckling (93-94/100)
“Fantastic aromas of blackberries, blackcurrants, licorice and walnuts. So St.-Julien. Full-bodied with a solid core of fruit and chewy tannins that are really long and serious. Like the 1995 Ducru! One for the cellar. Needs at least until after 2028.”
Jeff Leve – The Wine Cellar Insider (93/100)
“Polished, fresh, elegant and loaded with currants, cherries, tobacco, smoke, licorice, espresso and leafy herbs, the wine is medium-bodied, forward, juicy and vibrant with lift, energy and refinement on the palate and in the fruit-filled, soft-textured finish. Drink from 2023-2036.”
