Château du Tertre: Reviving a Margaux Grand Cru Classé

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Château du Tertre, a historic Margaux estate, revives with biodynamic practices and unique wines, blending tradition and innovation for a bright future.

The Resurgence of Château du Tertre: A Historical Perspective

Château du Tertre, classified as a fifth grand cru in 1855, has recently regained prominence in the Margaux appellation. This estate, with its rich history, has undergone significant transformations over the years. Initially established by Pierre Mitchell, an Irishman known for inventing the Bordeaux bottle shape, the estate faced numerous challenges, including a devastating frost in 1956 that destroyed its vineyards.

In the late 1950s, the Capbern-Gasqueton family acquired the property, initiating a massive replanting effort. They replanted 52 hectares of vineyards, maintaining the original classification size. This replanting included a balanced mix of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot, which breathed new life into the estate. However, financial difficulties in the 1980s and 1990s led to neglect, and the property changed hands in 1997 to the Dutch family Albada Jelgersma.

A New Era: Restructuring and Biodynamic Practices

The turning point for Château du Tertre came in 2007 when the INAO conducted an audit of Margaux properties. The audit revealed that the vineyard’s planting density did not comply with regulations, prompting a restructuring plan. In 2008, a dedicated technical team was brought in to oversee the vineyard’s transformation, marking a new chapter in the estate’s history.

Today, approximately 85% of the property has been restructured, with a target completion date of 2035. The vineyard management philosophy emphasizes biodynamic practices, although not certified. Romain Beurienne, the Technical Director, highlights their commitment to sustainable practices, such as creating their own compost and allowing winter cover crops. The vineyard’s composition has evolved, with a current breakdown of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot, and 10% Cabernet Franc.

The Unique Offerings of Château du Tertre

In addition to its renowned red wines, Château du Tertre has ventured into producing a unique white wine. In 2012, the estate planted a small parcel of 1.45 hectares with an unusual blend of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, and Gros Manseng. This decision was partly influenced by family preferences and the desire to offer a diverse tasting experience for visitors.

The white wine, produced in limited quantities, has garnered attention for its distinctive profile. It is not classified as Bordeaux, which intrigues consumers and encourages exploration. The winemaking process at Château du Tertre emphasizes finesse and elegance, with careful selection and gentle extraction methods. The estate’s commitment to quality is evident in its meticulous approach to vinification, ensuring that each bottle reflects the unique terroir of Margaux.

In conclusion, Château du Tertre is not just a historical estate; it is a symbol of resilience and innovation in the wine industry. With its commitment to quality and sustainability, the estate is poised for a bright future, continuing to captivate wine enthusiasts around the world.

media: Idealwine – Victor Bureau

source: Idealwine – Château du Tertre : le renouveau d’un grand cru classé de Margaux