Château Margaux

Producer

Château Margaux is one of the five First Growth estates of Bordeaux, located in the Margaux appellation. The estate has been producing wines since the 16th century and is renowned for producing some of the most elegant and refined wines in the world.

Château Margaux is one of the five First Growth estates of Bordeaux, located in the Margaux appellation. The estate has been producing wines since the 16th century and is renowned for producing some of the most elegant and refined wines in the world.

History

The history of Château Margaux dates back to the 12th century when the estate was known as 'La Mothe de Margaux'. The modern era began in 1977 when André Mentzelopoulos acquired the property and invested heavily in restoring both the château and vineyards.

Key milestones:

  • 1590: Lestonnac family begins wine production
  • 1802: Colonilla family builds the iconic neoclassical château
  • 1855: Classified as First Growth (Premier Grand Cru Classé)
  • 1977: Acquired by André Mentzelopoulos
  • 1980: First vintage under new ownership becomes legendary

Philosophy

Under the guidance of Corinne Mentzelopoulos and technical director Philippe Bascaules, Château Margaux pursues an uncompromising approach to quality.

Core principles:

  • Plot-by-plot viticulture with meticulous attention to terroir
  • Sustainable farming practices
  • Precise sorting and gentle extraction
  • 100% new French oak aging
  • Only the finest lots make the Grand Vin

Estate & Vineyards

The estate encompasses 262 hectares, with 87 hectares planted to red varieties and 12 hectares to white (Sauvignon Blanc for Pavillon Blanc).

Terroir highlights:

  • Deep Günzian gravel deposits (4-6 meters)
  • Clay and limestone subsoil
  • Exceptional drainage
  • Proximity to Gironde estuary

Grape varieties:

  • Cabernet Sauvignon (75%)
  • Merlot (20%)
  • Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc (5%)

Wine Portfolio

Château Margaux produces three wines:

Grand Vin: Château Margaux The flagship wine, produced from the estate's finest parcels. Only 35-40% of production.

Second Wine: Pavillon Rouge First created in 1908, relaunched in 1979. Made from younger vines and lots not selected for the Grand Vin.

White Wine: Pavillon Blanc 100% Sauvignon Blanc from 12 hectares. One of Bordeaux's most prestigious white wines, though not classified.

Key People

Corinne Mentzelopoulos Owner since 1980. Daughter of André Mentzelopoulos, she has maintained his vision of uncompromising quality.

Philippe Bascaules Technical Director since 2011. Previously worked at Robert Mondavi in Napa Valley. Oversees all winemaking and viticulture.

Sébastien Vergne Estate Director managing commercial and administrative operations.

Visiting

Château Margaux offers visits by appointment only.

What to expect:

  • Tour of the historic château and cellars
  • View of the vineyard landscape
  • Professional guided tastings available for trade

Contact:

  • Website: www.chateau-margaux.com
  • Visits must be arranged in advance

External Links

References

  1. [PAR03]Robert Parker. Bordeaux: A Consumer's Guide to the World's Finest Wines (2003)