Rouget, Chateau
Summary
Château Rouget is a historic Pomerol estate of 18 hectares owned by the Labruyère family since 1992, producing around 50,000 bottles annually from 40-year-old Merlot and Cabernet Franc vines planted in the region's characteristic clay, gravel, and iron-rich soils. Their winemaking combines traditional methods with modern precision through hand-harvesting, parcel-by-parcel vinification, and 18 months of aging in French oak, reflecting their commitment to expressing Pomerol's distinctive terroir while respecting the estate's historical significance.
Heritage & Leadership
Château Rouget stands as one of the historic estates in Pomerol, with roots dating back to the mid-19th century. The property underwent a significant transformation in 1992 when it was acquired by the Labruyère family, led by Jean-Pierre Labruyère, who added this Bordeaux estate to their portfolio of wine properties. Under the Labruyère family's direction, Château Rouget has experienced substantial investment and revitalization. The day-to-day operations are overseen by Edouard Labruyère, who works closely with consultant oenologist Michel Rolland to guide the winemaking process. This partnership has focused on enhancing the estate's potential while respecting its historical significance within the Pomerol appellation.
Vineyards & Wines
Château Rouget encompasses approximately 18 hectares of vineyards situated in the Pomerol appellation on Bordeaux's Right Bank. The estate's plantings consist of 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc, reflecting the traditional varietal composition of the region. The vineyards benefit from their position on Pomerol's plateau, where they grow in soils characterized by a mix of clay, gravel, and iron-rich deposits known locally as "crasse de fer." This terroir provides excellent drainage while retaining sufficient moisture during dry periods. The vineyard parcels are meticulously maintained with an average vine age of 40 years, contributing to the concentration and complexity in the finished wines. Château Rouget produces approximately 50,000 bottles annually of their grand vin, with a second wine called Le Carillon de Rouget representing younger vines and specific parcels.
Philosophy & Practice
The winemaking approach at Château Rouget balances traditional methods with modern precision. Harvest is conducted by hand, with grapes undergoing careful sorting both in the vineyard and at the winery. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, allowing for precise extraction and preservation of fruit character. The wine ages for 18 months in French oak barrels, with approximately 25% new oak used each vintage to impart subtle complexity without overwhelming the wine's inherent character. The Labruyère family has implemented a parcel-by-parcel approach to vineyard management and vinification, enabling them to highlight the specific qualities of different sections within their property. This attention to detail extends throughout the production process, from pruning decisions to final blending, reflecting their commitment to expressing the distinctive character of their Pomerol terroir.