
Château Pichon Comtesse
Bordeaux
Address:
Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, Route des Châteaux, Pauillac, France
Website:
Winemaker:
Nicolas Glumineau
First Vintage:
1780
Accepts Visitors:
Special Request
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Summary
Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, often simply referred to as Château Pichon Comtesse, is a renowned winery situated in the Pauillac appellation of the Bordeaux region in France. As a second growth estate, as classified in the Bordeaux Wine Official Classification of 1855, Pichon Comtesse is recognized for producing some of the most prestigious and sought-after wines in the world.
The Château's origins date back to the 17th century, with its current identity shaped over centuries of history. The estate's illustrious name pays homage to one of its most influential owners, Virginie de Pichon Longueville, the Countess of Lalande, who took over the property in the 19th century and dedicated herself to improving the quality and reputation of the wines produced there.
Set within the scenic landscapes of the Médoc, the chateau itself is a picture of elegance, with architecture that is reflective of its noble heritage. The traditional French chateau, with its fairy-tale turrets and majestic façade, stands proudly among the lush vineyards, which cover approximately 85 hectares of land.
The vineyard is planted with a higher proportion of Merlot compared to other estates in Pauillac, along with Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. This unique blend of grapes contributes to the winery's signature style, producing wines that are known for their balance, complexity, and silky tannins. The presence of a higher percentage of Merlot also gives Pichon Comtesse's wines a characteristic richness and a softer edge, making them more accessible in their youth while still possessing excellent aging potential.
Château Pichon Comtesse is diligent in its cultivation methods, utilizing both traditional practices and modern techniques to ensure the highest quality of wine. The grapes are meticulously hand-harvested, and the winemaking process is carefully managed to create a portfolio of wines that reflect both the terroir and the estate's commitment to excellence.
The Grand Vin, Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, is the estate's flagship wine and a true embodiment of Pauillac's character. Alongside the Grand Vin, the estate also produces a second wine, Réserve de la Comtesse, which offers a more approachable expression of the terroir for earlier consumption.
Visiting Château Pichon Comtesse is a captivating experience for any wine enthusiast; the winery offers tours that guide visitors through the picturesque vineyards, state-of-the-art winemaking facilities, and historic cellars. Guests can cap off their visit with a tasting of the chateau's distinguished wines, gaining insight into the nuanced craft of fine wine production in Bordeaux.
With its combination of rich history, impeccable winemaking, and a stunning setting, Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande stands as a jewel in the crown of Bordeaux's viticultural heritage. Connoisseurs from around the globe seek out its wines for their elegance, depth, and storied provenance.