Coutet, Chateau
Summary
Château Coutet, a Premier Cru Barsac estate established in the 13th century, produces sweet Sauternes-Barsac wines from 38.5 hectares of clay-limestone soils planted predominantly to Sémillon. The estate maintains traditional methods, utilizing its original 13th-century vertical press alongside modern techniques, with wines aging 18 months in new French oak barrels.
Heritage & Leadership
Château Coutet's history dates to the 13th century, making it one of Barsac's oldest wine estates. The property earned Premier Cru status in the historic 1855 Classification of Bordeaux wines. In 1978, the Marcel Baly family acquired the estate, with brothers Philippe and Dominique Baly now directing operations. The château maintains its medieval character, including the original 13th-century press house which remains in use today.
Vineyards & Wines
The estate encompasses 38.5 hectares in the Barsac appellation, with vineyards planted on distinctive clay-limestone soils underlain by red sand and ancient oyster fossils. The vineyard composition is precisely maintained at 75% Sémillon, 23% Sauvignon Blanc, and 2% Muscadelle, with vines averaging 35 years of age. This specific terroir, combined with Barsac's microclimate, provides conditions for the development of noble rot, essential to the estate's sweet wine production.
Philosophy & Practice
Château Coutet adheres to traditional Sauternes-Barsac winemaking methods, with grapes harvested by hand through successive passes through the vineyards as noble rot develops. The historic 13th-century vertical press remains integral to production. Fermentation takes place in 100% new French oak barrels, followed by 18 months of aging in French oak. The estate maintains its centuries-old commitment to expressing the distinctive characteristics of its Barsac terroir through careful preservation of traditional techniques while incorporating modern precision in the cellar.