Saint-Julien - Clos du Marquis 2016

The domain

Never has the term château, in its noblest sense, been so well worn as in Beychevelle. The Château de Beychevelle reflects the elegance of its classical architecture, making it one of the jewels of the Médoc coveted since its creation by powerful families who have successively left their mark on the economic, political and cultural life of Bordeaux and its region.

Located on a low altitude plateau, the AOC Saint-Julien vineyard borders the commune of Cussac. Most of the land benefits from soil similar to that of Latour, made up of large gravel with drainage favored by numerous canals. The castle was built in 1565 by Bishop François de Foix-Candale. His niece, who inherited it, married Jean Louis de Nogaret de la Valette, first Duke of Épernon, Grand Admiral of France and Governor of Guyenne, close to King Henry III. The Duke's power and fame were such that boats passing in front of the estate had to lower the sails as a sign of allegiance ("lower the sail" in patois), hence the name Beychevelle. A new castle was built in the middle of the 18th century by the Marquis de Brassier, Baron de Beychevelle. The property was classified as the fourth grand cru in 1855. Several owners have succeeded one another at its head until today: the Japanese Suntory and the Castel group are now co-shareholders of GMF (Grands Millésimes de France), which owns, among other Chateau Beychevelle. The vineyard extends over 90 hectares within a 250-hectare estate and the grape varieties are 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, supplemented by 31% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. It is conducted in sustainable agriculture. Château Beychevelle has become one of the best names in the Médoc.