Grand-Puy-Lacoste, Chateau
Summary
Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste is a Fifth Growth Pauillac estate spanning 90 hectares, with 58 hectares of predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards planted on gravelly plateau soils 23-26 meters above sea level. The Borie family, owners since 1978, maintains traditional Médoc practices while employing precise plot-by-plot management and modern temperature-controlled vinification, aging their wines for 18 months in French oak.
Heritage & Leadership
Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste holds classification as a Fifth Growth (Cinquième Cru) in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification. The estate's documented history traces to the Lacoste family's ownership in the early 19th century. In 1978, François-Xavier Borie acquired the property, marking the beginning of the current era. Today, his daughter Emeline Borie manages the estate as CEO, maintaining direct family involvement in daily operations. The Borie family's tenure has focused on precise vineyard management and winemaking investments, including a complete renovation of the winemaking facilities in 2003.
Vineyards & Wines
The estate comprises 90 hectares in Pauillac, with 58 hectares under vine. The vineyards occupy a prime position on Pauillac's gravelly plateau, with elevations ranging from 23 to 26 meters above sea level. The soil composition features deep Garonne gravel layers over limestone subsoil, characteristic of Pauillac's best terroirs. The vineyard maintains a traditional Médoc planting ratio of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, and 5% Cabernet Franc. Plot-by-plot management allows for precise harvesting based on optimal ripeness for each variety and vineyard section.
Philosophy & Practice
Grand-Puy-Lacoste's winemaking protocol emphasizes gentle extraction and precision. After hand-harvesting, grapes undergo double sorting before fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats. The estate employs plot-by-plot vinification, with separate tanks designated for each vineyard parcel. Malolactic fermentation occurs in vat, followed by aging in French oak barrels for 18 months, with 65-75% new oak used each vintage. The final blend typically reflects the vineyard's planting proportions, though exact percentages vary based on vintage conditions. The grand vin accounts for approximately 50% of total production.