Winemaker and Vineyard: Clos des Jacobins owes its name to the Benedictine preaching monks who were baptized Jacobins in reference to Saint-Jacques, the patron saint of the Parisian convent of the order. Located at the entrance to the medieval city of Saint-Emilion, the vineyard enjoys a unique terroir due to its southern exposure and soil rich in limestone scree mixed with clay. The vineyard, consisting of a single plot around the cellars, has been in place since the 17th century and has recently benefited from a complete renovation of its cellars and thermo-regulated wooden vats.

Tasting: The finest wine made at this estate since 1982, this sleeper of the vintage possesses complex aromas of herbs, black currants, licorice, camphor, and hints of spicy oak as well as damp earth. It is a richly fruity, dense St.-Emilion with a plush texture, sweet tannins, and gorgeous length. robertparker.com (02.25.2009)

Service: Serve at room temperature (16-18°C) to accompany a deer pâté in pastry.