Château Les Grands Chênes, Médoc

Key characteristics:

Château Les Grands Chênes, Médoc is a distinguished “Assimilé Grand Cru,” a term signifying its exceptional quality and authentic expression of terroir, comparable to classified growths despite not being officially ranked. This prestigious property, often hailed as “The Pearl of the Médoc,” has been meticulously cultivated by renowned wine magnate Bernard Magrez since 1998, who, with the expertise of consultant oenologist Michel Rolland, has consistently elevated its standing. It earned the coveted Cru Bourgeois Supérieur classification in 2003 and is celebrated for offering remarkable value within the Médoc appellation.

Tasting Notes:

• Variety: 70% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon
• Appearance: Very dark ruby color.
• Aroma: It displays an aromatic and expressive nose with notes of flowers, blackberry, crushed redcurrants accompanied by subtle touches of liquorice and chocolate.
• Taste: On the palate, this wine expresses hints of blackberry, small red fruits and delicate touches of violet and spices that extend into a tasty finish.
• Region: Hailing from Médoc, France, the vineyard is situated in Saint-Christoly du Médoc. Its terroir, closely linked to the Gironde estuary, is characterized by a mix of Garonne gravel, clay, and limestone soils, creating a unique micro-climate ideal for viticulture.
• Pairing: An ideal companion for red meats, barbecue, game, and dishes in rich sauce. It also harmonizes beautifully with rich pasta dishes, aged cheeses, and mushrooms.

Overall impression:

This is a powerful and concentrated red wine, presenting a full-bodied and fleshy palate with impressive volume and supple tannins. It consistently delivers a qualitative profile, embodying elegance and a distinctive character that wine enthusiasts will appreciate.

Extra notes:

• Bernard Magrez, the visionary owner, is a multi-millionaire wine magnate known for his relentless pursuit of perfection and his integration of technological innovation across his numerous prestigious estates worldwide.
• The Château Les Grands Chênes estate itself boasts a rich history, with its vineyards planted around an old fortress dating back to the 16th century.
• The wine consistently garners strong reviews from leading critics, with accolades such as 92-93 points from James Suckling, 90-91 points from Robert Parker, and 91 points from Decanter for various releases.
• The vineyard embraces sustainable agriculture practices and is an active participant in the Bordeaux Wine Environmental Management System (EMS) association, reflecting a commitment to environmental stewardship.