Château BEYCHEVELLE 1978
Located on a plateau of low altitude, the vineyard AOC Saint-Julien adjoins the town of Cussac. Most of the land has a soil similar to that of Latour, consisting of large drainage gravel favored by many channels. The castle was built in 1565 by Bishop François de Foix-Candale. His niece, who inherited it, married Jean Louis de Nogaret de la Valette, first duke of Epernon, grand admiral of France and governor of Guyenne, close to King Henry III. The power and fame of the Duke were such that the boats that passed the domain had to lower the sails as a sign of allegiance ("lower the sail" in patois), hence the name of Beychevelle. A new castle was built in the middle of the 18th century by the Marquis de Brassier, Baron de Beychevelle. The property is ranked fourth Grand Cru in 1855. Several owners have succeeded to its head until today: the Japanese Suntory and Castel Group are now co-shareholders of GMF (Great Vintages of France), which has among others the castle Beychevelle. The vineyard covers 90 hectares within an area of 250 hectares and the vines are composed of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, supplemented by 31% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. It is conducted in sustainable agriculture. Château Beychevelle produces fine and balanced wines, rich in tannins and whose aromas of fruit and spices are of a charming delicacy. With a good structure, these wines are suitable for long aging. Many amateurs, French and foreign, are looking for old vintages, particularly successful. As for recent years they are acclaimed by a global clientele, including Asian.