Cabanne, Chateau La
Summary
Château La Cabanne is a traditional family-owned Pomerol estate of approximately 10 hectares, operated by the Estager family on the appellation's central plateau, where they produce a single Merlot-dominant wine from clay-gravel soils enriched with iron deposits. Their winemaking balances hand-harvesting and careful sorting with moderate oak aging (one-third new barrels), embodying authentic Pomerol character through a measured approach that prioritizes terroir expression over international recognition.
Heritage & Leadership
Château La Cabanne stands as a traditional Pomerol estate located on Bordeaux's Right Bank. The property has been in the hands of the Estager family since the mid-20th century, with François Estager currently at the helm of operations. The estate maintains a relatively modest profile within the Pomerol appellation, focusing on consistent quality rather than seeking the spotlight. The Estager family has maintained the property's traditional character while gradually implementing improvements to both vineyard management and winemaking facilities over recent decades.
Vineyards & Wines
Château La Cabanne's vineyards span approximately 10 hectares in the Pomerol appellation, positioned on the plateau near the village of Pomerol. The vineyard composition reflects the classic Pomerol blend, with Merlot dominating at approximately 85% of plantings, complemented by Cabernet Franc at 15%. The estate benefits from the region's characteristic terroir, featuring clay and gravel soils with iron-rich deposits known locally as "*crasse de fer*," which contribute to the wines' structure and mineral profile. The property produces a single wine, the Château La Cabanne Grand Vin, which exemplifies the approachable yet age-worthy style typical of quality Pomerol productions.
Philosophy & Practice
The approach at Château La Cabanne balances traditional Bordeaux winemaking methods with careful attention to detail in both vineyard and cellar. Harvesting is conducted by hand, with rigorous sorting to ensure only optimal fruit enters the fermentation process. The wine undergoes fermentation in temperature-controlled tanks before aging in French oak barrels, with approximately one-third new oak each vintage. This measured approach to oak influence allows the terroir expression to remain at the forefront while providing structural support and complexity. The estate follows a philosophy of minimal intervention, allowing the distinctive Pomerol character to emerge naturally in the finished wines, which typically display the plush texture and red fruit profile characteristic of the appellation.