Clos des Jacobins winery
Clos des Jacobins is a historic Grand Cru Classé estate located at the entrance of Saint-Émilion, with origins dating back to the 17th century when it was established by Dominican monks, known as Jacobins, who cultivated vines and offered hospitality to pilgrims on the route to Santiago de Compostela. The estate encompasses 8.3 hectares of vineyards, all situated in a single block, benefiting from exceptional terroir composed of limestone and clay soils. This unique positioning at the foot of the Saint-Émilion slope allows for optimal drainage and sun exposure, contributing to the complexity and richness of the wines.
The vineyard is planted primarily with Merlot, which makes up about 80% of the vines, alongside 18% Cabernet Franc and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon. The average age of the vines is around 30 years, and the estate practices sustainable viticulture, with careful attention to environmental impact and biodiversity. The grapes are harvested by hand, ensuring only the best fruit is selected for vinification. Modern winemaking techniques are employed in harmony with traditional methods, including fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats and aging in French oak barrels for 18 to 20 months, with a significant proportion of new oak used each year.
Clos des Jacobins has been owned by Magali and Thibaut Decoster since 2004. Under their stewardship, the estate has undergone significant investment and modernization, both in the vineyard and the cellar, aiming to express the full potential of the terroir while respecting its heritage. Their vision combines a pursuit of excellence with a commitment to authenticity, resulting in wines that are powerful, elegant, and age-worthy, reflecting the unique character of Saint-Émilion.
The estate produces a flagship Grand Cru Classé wine, Clos des Jacobins, known for its deep color, intense aromas of ripe fruit, spices, and floral notes, and a palate that is both structured and refined. The wine displays a harmonious balance between richness, freshness, and fine tannins, making it accessible in its youth but also capable of developing further complexity with age. In addition to the grand vin, Clos des Jacobins also offers a second wine, L’Angelot de Clos des Jacobins, designed to be more approachable in its early years while maintaining the estate’s signature style and quality.
Visitors to Clos des Jacobins are welcomed for guided tours and tastings, with the estate offering various experiences that showcase both its history and its wines. The property’s location, just steps from the medieval village of Saint-Émilion, makes it an ideal destination for wine lovers seeking to explore one of Bordeaux’s most celebrated appellations. The estate’s commitment to excellence, respect for tradition, and embrace of innovation have earned it recognition among wine enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Clos des Jacobins continues to build on its centuries-old legacy, producing wines that capture the spirit of Saint-Émilion and the dedication of those who tend its vines. The estate stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Bordeaux’s Right Bank, offering wines that combine depth, elegance, and a true sense of place.