Quatres Vents, Clos des
Summary
Clos des Quatres Vents is a small Margaux estate of 5-10 hectares owned by the Thienpont family, producing classic Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant Bordeaux blends from the appellation's characteristic gravelly soils. The property combines traditional winemaking with measured oak integration (30-50% new French barrels for 12-18 months), delivering authentic Margaux character while remaining under the radar compared to its more famous neighbors.
Heritage & Leadership
Clos des Quatre Vents is a wine estate situated in the Margaux appellation of Bordeaux, France. The property's history extends back to the 18th century, though the precise founding date remains part of its historical narrative. The name "Clos des Quatre Vents" translates to "Enclosure of the Four Winds," reflecting the vineyard's exposure to various wind directions that influence its microclimate.
The estate came under the stewardship of the Thienpont family when Luc Thienpont acquired it in the late 1980s or early 1990s. This acquisition added Clos des Quatre Vents to the portfolio of the Thienpont family, who maintain significant presence in Bordeaux through their connections to other notable properties including Vieux Château Certan and Le Pin. The Thienpont family brings generations of winemaking expertise to this Margaux property, continuing its tradition of quality wine production.
Vineyards & Wines
Clos des Quatre Vents encompasses approximately 5-10 hectares of vineyards within the prestigious Margaux appellation on the Left Bank of Bordeaux. The property benefits from the classic gravelly soils that define Margaux terroir, providing excellent drainage and heat retention properties that are particularly favorable for growing Cabernet Sauvignon.
The vineyard plantings follow traditional Margaux composition, with Cabernet Sauvignon as the dominant variety, complemented by Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and smaller quantities of Petit Verdot. This varietal mix allows the estate to produce wines that express the characteristic elegance and aromatic complexity associated with the Margaux appellation.
The flagship wine is bottled as Château Clos des Quatre Vents, Margaux, carrying the appellation's designation. While not included in the historic 1855 Classification, the wine is produced under the strict regulations of the Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) Margaux, ensuring adherence to regional quality standards.
Philosophy & Practice
Winemaking at Clos des Quatre Vents follows traditional Bordeaux methods refined over generations. The technical approach includes temperature-controlled fermentation conducted in stainless steel or concrete vats, allowing for precise management of the extraction process.
After fermentation, the wine undergoes maturation in French oak barrels for a period typically ranging from 12 to 18 months. The oak program likely incorporates between 30-50% new barrels, providing structural elements and complexity while respecting the intrinsic character of the fruit.
This measured approach to oak aging, combined with the estate's adherence to traditional Bordeaux winemaking principles, results in wines that express the distinctive characteristics of their Margaux terroir. The production methods employed at Clos des Quatre Vents reflect a commitment to quality that has been maintained throughout its history under the guidance of its owners.