Haut-Médoc

The Haut-Médoc is the region of the Médoc closest to Bordeaux. In 1855, wine merchants and viticulture professionals established a classification of the Médoc’s greatest wines, thereby creating a ranked list of Grands Crus Classés. This updated list remains in effect today and includes 62 prestigious châteaux. Recognized as an AOC by a decree dated November 14, 1936, the region comprises 25 communes. The well-drained terraces of gravelly alluvial soil are the ideal habitat for Cabernet Sauvignon, while Merlot thrives in the deeper, clay-rich soils. The total area of vineyards planted that qualify for the Haut-Médoc appellation amounts to nearly 4,600 hectares.

Composed primarily of Garonne gravel deposits, the Haut-Médoc region is best known for its extreme diversity of soils, combining limestone, clay, and sandy plots. With beautiful aromatic complexity, Haut-Médoc wines reveal superb aromas of red and black fruits, as well as licorice, sometimes with a hint of mint or spice. Aged in oak barrels, they develop an elegant and very pleasant oak character. As they age, they develop beautiful bouquets offering a delightful array of animal notes (leather, fur), roasted notes (mocha), prune, cedar, truffle… These are lively, brilliant, generous, and powerful wines, yet never excessive. Cabernet Sauvignon is the dominant variety in the blend. It is paired with Merlot. Petit Verdot and, to a lesser extent, Malbec are often added.

The Haut-Médoc is an appellation brimming with high-quality estates, among which Château Cantemerle, Château La Tour Carnet, Château La Lagune, and Château Sociando-Mallet are particularly noteworthy.