Belgrave, Chateau
Summary
Château Belgrave is a 59-hectare Fifth Growth estate from the 1855 Classification located in Haut-Médoc near Saint-Julien, producing Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant Bordeaux blends from gravelly soils over clay-limestone subsoil. The Dourthe-owned property maintains traditional Bordeaux winemaking methods with parcel-specific vinification in temperature-controlled tanks, followed by 12-14 months aging in French oak, while keeping yields low to preserve the structured character that honors their classified growth status.
Heritage & Leadership
Château Belgrave stands as a Fifth Growth (Grand Cru Classé) estate from the historic 1855 Bordeaux Classification, located in the Haut-Médoc appellation. The property's origins date to the 18th century, though its viticultural history became more defined in the 19th century when it was owned by the Coutanceau family. The estate's name derives from "Bel-Grave," referencing the distinctive gravel soils that characterize its terroir.
In 1979, Château Belgrave entered a new chapter when it was acquired by Dourthe, a prominent Bordeaux négociant house founded in 1840. This acquisition marked the beginning of significant investments in both the vineyard and winemaking facilities. Today, Belgrave operates under the leadership of Patrick Jestin, CEO of Dourthe, with Michel Rolland serving as consulting oenologist. The technical direction of the estate is managed by Frédéric Bonnaffous, who oversees viticultural and winemaking operations across Dourthe's properties.
Under Dourthe's stewardship, Château Belgrave has undergone comprehensive renovations, including a complete modernization of the winemaking facilities in 2004. This period of renewal has focused on enhancing the expression of the estate's terroir while respecting its historical classification status.
Vineyards & Wines
Château Belgrave encompasses 59 hectares of vineyards situated on the western edge of the Saint-Julien appellation, though officially classified within Haut-Médoc. The vineyard plantings consist of 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot, with an average vine age of 25 years.
The estate's terroir features the quintessential Médoc gravel soils, specifically Günzian gravel deposits over a clay-limestone subsoil. These well-draining soils force the vines to develop deep root systems, contributing to the structured character of the wines. The vineyard parcels sit at modest elevations typical of the Médoc peninsula, with gentle slopes that provide natural drainage.
Château Belgrave produces three wines: the Grand Vin (Château Belgrave), a second wine called Diane de Belgrave (introduced in 1987), and a small production white wine named Les Chardons de Belgrave, made from Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. The Grand Vin typically displays the classic Haut-Médoc profile of blackcurrant, cedar, and graphite notes, with a structure that allows for medium to long-term aging.
Philosophy & Practice
The winemaking approach at Château Belgrave combines traditional Bordeaux methods with modern precision. Harvest is conducted parcel by parcel, with each vineyard block picked at optimal ripeness and vinified separately. The estate employs temperature-controlled stainless steel vats of varying sizes, allowing for precise vinification of individual parcels.
Fermentation occurs over approximately three weeks, with careful extraction managed through pump-overs and délestage (rack and return) techniques. The Grand Vin undergoes malolactic fermentation and aging in French oak barrels, with 40% new oak, for a period of 12-14 months. During this time, the wine is racked every three months using traditional techniques.
In the vineyard, Belgrave implements a detailed plot management system, with viticultural practices tailored to each parcel's specific characteristics. Canopy management, green harvesting, and leaf removal are practiced to ensure optimal ripening. The estate maintains low yields, averaging 45 hectoliters per hectare, to concentrate flavor and structure in the finished wines.
Dourthe has implemented a comprehensive quality control program across all its properties, including Belgrave, focusing on precision viticulture and sustainable farming practices. This systematic approach to quality extends from vineyard management through vinification and aging, reflecting the estate's commitment to expressing its classified growth status.