Sansonnet, Chateau
Summary
Château Sansonnet is a Grand Cru Classé estate in Saint-Émilion producing Merlot-dominant Bordeaux blends from exceptional limestone plateau vineyards that provide ideal growing conditions for wines of remarkable depth. Under Marie-Bénédicte Lefévère's ownership since 2009, the estate has undergone substantial renovations and quality improvements, earning its classification upgrade in 2012 and establishing itself as an emerging force among Saint-Émilion's elite producers.
Heritage & Leadership
Chateau Sansonnet stands among the historic wine estates of Saint-Émilion in Bordeaux, France, with roots extending back several centuries. The château building itself is an 18th-century structure that exemplifies traditional Bordeaux architectural style. In 2009, the property came under the ownership of Marie-Bénédicte Lefévère, marking a significant turning point in its development. Under Lefévère's direction, the estate has undergone substantial renovations and received considerable investment to enhance both its facilities and wine quality.
The estate's dedication to quality was formally recognized in 2012 when Chateau Sansonnet was elevated to Grand Cru Classé status in the Saint-Émilion classification, a testament to the improvements made under its current leadership. This classification represents an important milestone in the château's history, placing it among the more distinguished properties in this prestigious appellation.
Vineyards & Wines
Chateau Sansonnet benefits from an exceptional terroir, situated on the limestone plateau of Saint-Émilion, one of the region's most favorable locations for viticulture. The estate encompasses vineyards on the limestone plateau of Saint-Émilion, planted predominantly on limestone and clay-limestone soils that are characteristic of Saint-Émilion's finest growing areas.
The vineyard is planted primarily to Merlot, complemented by smaller proportions of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, following traditional Right Bank Bordeaux planting patterns. This varietal composition aligns with traditional Right Bank Bordeaux planting patterns, where Merlot thrives in the limestone-rich soils. The estate produces a classic Bordeaux-style red wine under the Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé appellation, reflecting the distinctive character of its terroir.
Philosophy & Practice
At Chateau Sansonnet, traditional methods merge with modern techniques to produce wines that honor their Saint-Émilion heritage. Harvest is conducted by hand, with careful sorting of grapes to ensure only the highest quality fruit enters the winemaking process. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled vessels, allowing for precise management of the extraction process.
The maturation program involves aging the wines in French oak barrels, with a significant percentage of new oak, contributing to the wine's structure and complexity while maintaining the expression of fruit and terroir.
The winemaking approach at Chateau Sansonnet tends toward a more modern interpretation of Saint-Émilion, producing wines with rich fruit character, well-integrated oak influence, and the structural elements necessary for aging. This philosophy has contributed to the estate's growing reputation and its recognition as a Grand Cru Classé property.