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The History and Significance of Chateau Grand-Puy-Lacoste Wines
The estate of Chateau Grand-Puy-Lacoste is situated around the magnificent Château and spans 90 hectares, with 58 hectares dedicated to vineyards. Since its acquisition by the Borie family in 1978, the vineyards have undergone a patient process of replanting, resulting in a harmonious balance between young and old vines, with an average age of 38 years.
Exceptional Grape Varieties
Chateau Grand-Puy-Lacoste proudly cultivates three grape varieties in its vineyards. The estate is predominantly planted with 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, which serves as the noble backbone of their wines. The remaining 20% consists of Merlot, renowned for its finesse and generosity, while 5% is Cabernet Franc, contributing elegance and finesse to the final blend.
A Commitment to Sustainable Vineyard Management
Grand-Puy-Lacoste is deeply committed to the meticulous management of its vineyard, striving for precision at every stage. Over the course of 20 years, chemical treatments have been halved, and for the past decade, no insecticides have been used, allowing the restoration of the vineyard's natural fauna. The estate embraces manual labour, employing physical efforts for soil cultivation, and eliminating the use of herbicides. The commitment to quality is reflected in the high-density planting of 10,000 vines per hectare, ensuring optimal grape development.
The Art of Harvesting and Sorting
Each year, Chateau Grand-Puy-Lacoste assembles a dedicated team of experienced pickers who share the same values as the Borie family. A meticulous approach to harvesting begins with a "green harvest" to reduce yields, followed by careful selection of the ideal picking date to ensure the best possible fruit maturity. The grapes are hand-picked, delicately placed in crates to preserve their integrity, and transported to the vat house for further processing.
A Crafted Vinification Process
Chateau Grand-Puy-Lacoste employs state-of-the-art techniques in their carefully controlled, classic vinification process. Temperature-controlled vats of varying capacities allow for precise winemaking, respecting the unique character of each vineyard parcel. Fermentation takes place over three weeks, employing soft extractions and daily pumping to enhance the wine's colour, tannin, and aromatic complexity. Malolactic fermentation follows, ensuring the wine's stability, suppleness, and roundness.
The Art of Assemblage
The assemblage, the blending of different lots, is a crucial moment in the creation of each vintage at Chateau Grand-Puy-Lacoste. A team effort involving key individuals, including François-Xavier Borie, Marie-Hélène Borie, Emeline Borie, Eric Boissenot (consultant oenologist), Christel Spinner (research and development director), Philippe Gouze (cellar master), and Antonio Flores (vineyard manager), ensures the meticulous selection and combination of wines. Tastings, trials, and meetings shape the final assemblage, harmonizing the chateau's style with the unique characteristics of the vintage.
Aging and Maturation in Fine Oak
Following the assemblage, the wines of Chateau Grand-Puy-Lacoste are transferred to barrels made from fine-grained Allier oak. Two-thirds of the barrels are new each year, contributing delicate and subtle tannins, while one-fill barrels complete the aging process. The estate selects barrels from three trusted cooperages, emphasizing quality over quantity. Aging typically lasts from 16 to 18 months, with regular gravity racking. Throughout this period, the mysterious alchemy between wine and wood takes place, carefully monitored to achieve the desired development before bottling.
Experience the Elegance of Chateau Grand-Puy-Lacoste Wines
Immerse yourself in the rich history and refined craftsmanship of Chateau Grand-Puy-Lacoste wines. Explore our collection and savour the distinct character and exceptional quality that has guided the Borie family for over three decades. Discover the perfect expression of the terroir and indulge in the timeless elegance of these remarkable wines.
Shop Now and Experience Chateau Grand-Puy-Lacoste at The Reserve Cellar!
