Conseillante, Chateau La
Summary
Château La Conseillante is an 11.8-hectare Pomerol estate run by the Nicolas family since 1871, producing Merlot-dominant Bordeaux blends from clay-gravel soils with significant iron deposits across 18 distinct parcels. The estate combines traditional plot-by-plot vinification with modern precision techniques, including optical sorting and gravity-flow systems introduced in 2012, while maintaining their signature purple capsule trademark established in 1929.
Heritage & Leadership
Château La Conseillante's documented history begins in 1735 under the ownership of Catherine Conseillan, from whom the estate derives its name. The Nicolas family acquired the property in 1871, marking the beginning of continuous family stewardship that continues today. The estate operates under the direction of fifth-generation family members Valmy and Bertrand Nicolas, with Jean-Michel Laporte serving as Technical Director since 2003. The property's distinctive purple capsule, introduced in 1871 and registered as a trademark in 1929, remains unchanged.
Vineyards & Wines
La Conseillante encompasses 11.8 hectares in Pomerol, positioned at the appellation's eastern edge bordering Saint-Émilion. The vineyard comprises 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc planted on clay-gravel soils with notable iron deposits. Vine density stands at 7,000 plants per hectare, with an average vine age of 34 years. The vineyard divides into 18 distinct parcels, each vinified separately. A 2012 soil mapping study identified 7 distinct soil types across the property, leading to precision-based viticulture protocols.
Philosophy & Practice
The estate employs plot-by-plot vinification in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats. Fermentation occurs at 28°C, with malolactic fermentation completed in barrel. The wine ages for 18 months in French oak barrels, with 70% new oak used annually. In 2012, La Conseillante introduced optical sorting technology and implemented a gravity-flow system in the cellar. The estate maintains detailed digital mapping of each vine parcel, informing precise harvest timing and vinification decisions. Annual production averages 45,000 bottles.