Beauregard, Chateau
Summary
Château Beauregard is a historic 17.5-hectare Pomerol estate situated on the appellation's plateau, producing Merlot and Cabernet Franc-based wines from vineyards characterized by gravel, clay, and iron-rich crasse de fer soils. The estate maintains traditional Bordeaux winemaking methods while implementing modern precision techniques, including plot-by-plot harvesting and vinification followed by 18 months in French oak barrels to create wines that authentically express their historic terroir.
Heritage & Leadership
Château Beauregard stands as one of Pomerol's historic estates, with origins dating back to the 11th century when it served as a fortress for the Knights Hospitaller of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem. The property's distinctive architecture reflects its evolution through the centuries, with the current château building constructed during the 18th century.
In 2014, ownership of Château Beauregard transferred to the Moulin and Cathiard families, marking a significant transition in the estate's history. The Cathiard family, who also own Château Smith Haut Lafitte in Pessac-Léognan, partnered with the Moulin family to acquire the property from the Bayonne family, who had owned it since 1991. Under the current ownership, Vincent Priou continues to serve as the estate manager, providing operational continuity through the transition.
Vineyards & Wines
Château Beauregard's 17.5-hectare vineyard occupies a favorable position on the Pomerol plateau. The vineyard composition consists of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc, planted on soils that combine gravel, clay, and the iron-rich deposits known locally as "crasse de fer" that characterize the best terroirs of Pomerol. This soil diversity contributes distinct mineral characteristics to the wines.
The estate's vines average 35 years of age, providing depth and concentration to the fruit. Château Beauregard produces two wines: their grand vin, Château Beauregard, and a second wine, Benjamin de Beauregard. The property's location on the western side of the Pomerol plateau places it near several other notable estates in the appellation, benefiting from the region's favorable mesoclimate for ripening Merlot and Cabernet Franc.
Philosophy & Practice
Winemaking at Château Beauregard combines traditional Bordeaux methods with modern precision. Harvest is conducted plot by plot, with each parcel vinified separately to preserve its unique characteristics. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, allowing for precise extraction and preservation of fruit character.
Following fermentation, the wines undergo malolactic fermentation in French oak barrels. The aging process extends for approximately 18 months in French oak, with about 50% new barrels each vintage. This measured approach to oak influence aims to complement rather than dominate the fruit expression.
In the vineyard, Beauregard employs sustainable viticulture practices with detailed attention to each plot's specific needs. The estate implements precision viticulture techniques, including careful canopy management and yield control to optimize fruit quality. This plot-by-plot approach continues from vineyard management through to the final blending, reflecting the team's commitment to expressing the distinctive character of their Pomerol terroir.