Château Margaux: The Versailles of the Médoc and Premier Cru Legend

History and Origins

• The estate dates back to the 12th century, when it was known as “La Mothe de Margaux.”
• In the 16th century, the de Lestonnac family undertook extensive vine planting, laying the foundations of the modern vineyard.
• In the 1855 Imperial Classification of Bordeaux wines, Château Margaux was the only estate to earn the maximum score of 20/20, confirming its unchallenged Premier Cru status.
• The present-day château, built in 1810 in neo-Palladian style by architect Louis Combes, is nicknamed the “Versailles of the Médoc.”

Vineyard and Terroir

• Situated on the left bank of the Gironde, the vineyard spans 82 hectares of deep gravel soils, providing exceptional natural drainage.
• The grape varieties are dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon (75%), followed by Merlot (20%), Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot.
• The vines benefit from an ideal microclimate, sheltered from winds by the Landes forest.

Winemaking and Aging

• Vinification takes place in oak and temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, with an extended maceration to extract finesse and complexity.
• Aging lasts 18 to 24 months in French oak barrels, 100% new oak for the grand vin.
• The grand vin, Château Margaux, is produced only in the best years, representing approximately 35% of the harvest.

The Wines

• Château Margaux (Grand Vin): Of legendary elegance, it combines power and finesse, with aromas of violet, cassis, cedar, and truffle. Its aging potential is exceptional, often 30 to 50 years.
• Pavillon Rouge du Château Margaux: The second wine, more accessible in its youth yet retaining the estate’s signature elegance.
• Pavillon Blanc du Château Margaux: A great dry white wine, 100% Sauvignon Blanc, rare and highly sought after.