Chateau LagrangeProducer from Bordeaux, France

Saint-Julien, Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux 1855 Classification: Third Growth

Chateau Lagrange, located in the prestigious Saint-Julien appellation on Bordeaux’s Left Bank, is a Third Growth estate from the 1855 Bordeaux Classification. Renowned for producing elegant and structured wines, Chateau Lagrange has a rich history that dates back centuries. With a commitment to tradition and innovation, Lagrange has earned a strong reputation for delivering consistent quality that reflects the classic style of Saint-Julien.

History of Château Lagrange

The history of Château Lagrange dates back to the Middle Ages, though the estate as it is known today began to take shape in the 18th century. It was classified as a Third Growth in the famous 1855 Bordeaux Classification, solidifying its place among the finest châteaux in the Médoc.

The modern renaissance of Château Lagrange began in 1983 when it was acquired by the Japanese company Suntory, marking one of the first instances of foreign investment in a classified Bordeaux estate. Suntory's purchase brought significant investment in both the vineyard and the winemaking facilities, allowing the estate to modernise while preserving its traditional roots. Under the leadership of winemaker Bruno Eynard, Château Lagrange has flourished, producing wines that are both powerful and refined, with a focus on balance and ageing potential.

Terroir of Chateau Lagrange

Chateau Lagrange’s 118 hectares of vineyards are situated in the heart of the Saint-Julien appellation, known for its gravelly soils and ideal conditions for growing Bordeaux’s classic red grape varieties. The vineyards benefit from the region’s characteristic gravel soils, which provide excellent drainage, allowing the vines to develop deep root systems and produce concentrated fruit.

The estate is planted with 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, and 6% Petit Verdot. Cabernet Sauvignon dominates the blend, contributing structure, tannins, and longevity to the wines, while Merlot adds roundness and softness. The Petit Verdot, though planted in smaller quantities, adds a touch of spice and complexity to the blend. The proximity to the Gironde estuary also moderates the climate, providing protection from frost and ensuring a long growing season, which is critical for optimal ripening.

Winemaking Philosophy

At Chateau Lagrange, winemaking is a combination of tradition and modern precision. The grapes are hand-harvested and carefully sorted to ensure that only the finest fruit is used. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, allowing for precise control over extraction and fermentation temperatures. This process ensures that the wines achieve a perfect balance of flavours, tannins, and acidity.

After fermentation, the wines are aged for 18 to 21 months in French oak barrels, with approximately 50% new oak used each year. The careful management of oak helps to add complexity and depth to the wines without overpowering the fruit. Château Lagrange is known for its ability to produce wines that are structured and age-worthy, but also approachable in their youth.

Style of Wine Produced

Chateau Lagrange produces wines that are classic representations of Saint-Julien—elegant, balanced, and structured. The wines typically display aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, cedar, and tobacco, along with hints of spice and earth. On the palate, they are medium to full-bodied, with fine-grained tannins and a long, smooth finish.

The high proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon gives the wines their firm structure and ageing potential, while the Merlot adds richness and softness. These wines are built to age gracefully, often requiring a few years of cellaring to reveal their full complexity, but are also enjoyable in their youth for their vibrant fruit and refined tannins.