Giscours, Chateau
Summary
Château Giscours is a Third Growth Margaux estate spanning 95 hectares of gravelly terroir in the appellation's southern sector, where Cabernet Sauvignon dominates the plantings at 60% alongside Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The estate's grand vin, representing 60% of production, ferments in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats before aging 18 months in 50% new French oak, with remaining volumes directed to their second wine, La Sirène de Giscours.
Heritage & Leadership
Château Giscours holds Third Growth (Troisième Cru) status from the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, situated in the Margaux appellation. The estate's modern era began in 1995 when Dutch businessman Eric Albada Jelgersma acquired the property. Since his passing in 2018, his family continues to guide operations. Alexander van Beek serves as managing director, maintaining oversight of both Château Giscours and its sister property, Château du Tertre.
Vineyards & Wines
The Giscours vineyard spans 95 hectares in the southern portion of the Margaux appellation. Deep Günz-period gravel deposits define the soil structure, with plantings divided between Cabernet Sauvignon (60%), Merlot (32%), Cabernet Franc (5%), and Petit Verdot (3%). The vineyard parcels occupy a series of gravel rises typical of the Margaux commune, with elevations ranging from 15 to 20 meters above sea level. The grand vin, Château Giscours, represents approximately 60% of total production.
Philosophy & Practice
The estate employs temperature-controlled stainless steel vats for fermentation, with separate vessels sized to match specific vineyard parcels. Aging takes place in French oak barrels, with 50% new oak used for the grand vin over a period of 18 months. The second wine, La Sirène de Giscours, follows a similar vinification protocol but sees a lower percentage of new oak during aging.