Montrose, Chateau
Summary
Château Montrose, a 95-hectare Second Growth estate in Saint-Estèphe, produces Cabernet Sauvignon-led Bordeaux blends from gravelly soils overlooking the Gironde estuary, with vines averaging 40 years of age. The estate combines traditional Bordeaux winemaking with modern innovations through its gravity-flow winery and sustainable practices, aging their grand vin for 18 months in French oak barrels.
Heritage & Leadership
Château Montrose's history began in 1815 when Etienne Théodore Dumoulin established the estate on a hunting grounds in Saint-Estèphe. The château earned Second Growth classification in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, cementing its position among the left bank's leading properties. The Charmolue family guided Montrose's development from 1896 to 2006, implementing numerous modernizations while maintaining traditional practices. Martin and Olivier Bouygues acquired the estate in 2006, initiating an extensive renovation program that included the construction of a new gravity-flow winery and the installation of one of Bordeaux's largest private solar panel arrays.
Vineyards & Wines
The 95-hectare vineyard occupies a prime location in Saint-Estèphe, positioned on a gravelly outcrop overlooking the Gironde estuary. The vineyard composition reflects traditional Médoc proportions: 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot. Deep gravel soils rest upon a limestone base, providing excellent drainage and mineral content. The average vine age stands at 40 years, with some parcels containing vines over 60 years old. Vine density averages 9,000 plants per hectare.
Philosophy & Practice
Montrose operates a gravity-flow winery completed in 2012, eliminating mechanical pumping during vinification. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled wooden and concrete vats, with separate vessels designated for each vineyard parcel. The estate holds HVE Level 3 certification (Haute Valeur Environnementale), reflecting its commitment to sustainable practices. In 2019, Montrose installed 3,000 square meters of solar panels, generating power for winery operations. The grand vin typically ages for 18 months in French oak barrels, with 60% new oak used annually.