A Pauillac classic with an unmistakable style
Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste is one of the most traditional and distinctive wineries in Pauillac and has been part of the "Cinquièmes Crus" group since the 1855 classification. Despite this formal classification, the estate is frequently mentioned as being on par with much higher-classified châteaux – a testament to the consistently high quality, classic style, and clear identity that have been reflected in its wines for decades. The estate is situated on one of the famous gravel plateaus of the Médoc, directly above the Gironde estuary, and today comprises approximately 55 hectares of vineyards, most of which are contiguous around the château itself.
The history of the estate dates back to the 16th century. The name "Grand-Puy" refers to the geographical origin of the vineyards: a gentle hill ("puy") of deep gravel, offering optimal conditions for Cabernet Sauvignon. The Lacoste family shaped the estate for generations before it passed into the hands of the Borie family in the mid-20th century – a winemaking family highly regarded in Bordeaux for their expertise. Under the leadership of François-Xavier Borie, Grand-Puy-Lacoste was modernized without losing its classic character. Today, the estate is among the most reliable producers in the appellation.
The vines of Grand-Puy-Lacoste grow on typical Pauillac soils: deep, well-drained gravel and pebble sites with a clay and limestone subsoil. These terroirs favor a slow and even ripening of the grapes, especially Cabernet Sauvignon, which makes up the majority of the grape varieties. With approximately 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, and 5% Cabernet Franc, Grand-Puy-Lacoste relies on a classic Médoc blend that perfectly reflects the character of the appellation. The vines are on average 40 years old, some considerably older, and are cultivated sustainably to ensure the long-term vitality of the soils and the expressiveness of the fruit.
In the cellar, the winery combines modern technology with traditional expertise. Vinification takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks before the wine matures for approximately 16 to 18 months in French oak barrels – about 60% of which are new. This aging process lends the wine structure, finesse, and longevity without overpowering the fruit. Grand-Puy-Lacoste is known for its remarkable tannins: powerful, silky, and precise. In its youth, the wine often displays aromas of cassis, blackberry, cedar, and graphite, accompanied by spicy and slightly smoky notes. With increasing age, it develops additional complexity, subtle leather and tobacco aromas, and an elegant depth that, for many connoisseurs, defines the heart of a great Pauillac.
Vintages such as 1982, 1990, 1996, 2009, 2010, 2016, and 2019 have significantly enhanced the winery's reputation and impressively demonstrate how well Grand-Puy-Lacoste can age. Even in less hyped years, the estate consistently impresses with its balance, clarity, and precision.
Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste is today a prime example of classic Bordeaux: authentic, structured, long-lasting and consistently of high quality – a wine that delights both collectors and connoisseurs.
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