Château Lagrange: A Legacy of Wine in Saint-Julien

Château Lagrange, a prestigious winery in the Saint-Julien appellation of Bordeaux, France, carries a legacy that stretches back to the Middle Ages. Originally known as Maison Noble de Lagrange Monteil, historical records mention the vineyard as early as 1631. The term "grange" at that time signified a large estate encompassing a church, hospital, farm buildings, and residences. Vestiges of this past remain in the names of some of the property's plots, such as "l'hôpital" and "la chapelle". In the 18th century, the Branne family of Bordeaux expanded the vineyard, transforming Lagrange into one of the Médoc's finest properties. Thomas Jefferson, then the United States Ambassador to France and a passionate wine enthusiast, visited Château Lagrange in 1787. He ranked Château Lagrange as a Third Classified Growth in his personal classification of Médoc wines, a testament to its early reputation. Jean-Valère Cabarrus, from a renowned wine merchant family, took over the estate in 1790. He focused on developing the viticultural aspects of the estate and constructed the classic-style main house on the site of the former manor. In 1842, Count Duchâtel, Home Secretary to King Louis Philippe, acquired the property. His dedication was so profound that he left his political career to devote himself entirely to elevating Château Lagrange's status. Duchâtel implemented a pioneering land drainage system using ceramic pipework manufactured on-site, a forward-thinking approach for the time. He also championed early treatments against powdery mildew and housed nearly 250 employees on the estate, setting an example of benevolent management and autonomous vision. Lagrange was awarded the rank of Third Classified Growth in the official 1855 classification, solidifying its place among Bordeaux's elite wines. The estate became a hub for high society, hosting lavish receptions and inviting artists to draw inspiration from the picturesque landscapes. However, the estate faced challenges in subsequent years, including the phylloxera crisis, World Wars, vine diseases, and economic downturns. In 1983, Keizo Saji, son of the founder of Suntory, acquired the property from the Cendoya family, who had owned it since 1925. Suntory's investment and commitment led to a comprehensive restoration of Château Lagrange's prestigious image. Under the direction of Marcel Ducasse, the vineyards and cellars were revitalized, blending tradition with modern techniques. Today, Château Lagrange spans 157 hectares in the Médoc, with 118 hectares planted with vines. The vineyard is planted with 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot. The estate also has a small vineyard dedicated to white varieties, including Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle. Château Lagrange produces three wines: the eponymous grand vin, Les Fiefs de Lagrange (the second wine), and Les Arums de Lagrange (a white wine). Visitors are welcome at Château Lagrange, where they can explore the estate's rich history and exceptional terroir. The experience includes guided tours of the vineyards and cellars, wine tastings, and blending workshops. For a unique culinary experience, guests can participate in cooking classes led by the in-house chef, Taichi Sato, who creates fusion dishes that combine local Médoc products with Japanese culinary techniques. The iconic Tuscan-style tower, built in 1845 according to the plans of architect Louis Visconti, stands as a testament to the estate's visionary outlook and long-term approach. Château Lagrange's location in Saint-Julien-Beychevelle places it among other renowned estates, close to Château Gruaud Larose and Château Branaire Ducru. The slopes of the vineyards reach up to 24 meters, the highest elevation in the Saint-Julien appellation, providing optimal conditions for grape growing. The estate's commitment to excellence and its blend of history, tradition, and innovation make it a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts seeking an immersive Bordeaux experience. The meticulous attention to detail in the vineyard, combined with the expertise of the winemaking team, results in elegant, powerful wines that age gracefully, reflecting the unique terroir of Château Lagrange.