The History of Château Beychevelle
Filled with legends, the history of Château Beychevelle dates back to the 17th century, when the influential Duke of Épernon, an admiral, owned it. At that time, every ship sailing down the Gironde past the estate had to lower its sails as a sign of respect—a custom that inspired the name "Beychevelle," literally meaning "lower the sail." This symbol is now the emblem of the Château.
Château Beychevelle is classified as a Fourth Grand Cru in the prestigious 1855 classification, attesting to the quality and international reputation of its wines. True to its traditions and the unique terroir of Saint-Julien, the estate continues an ancestral expertise, producing wines with unmatched elegance and complexity.
Viticulture and Winemaking : The Estate's Philosophy
In the past, harvests at Château Beychevelle were accompanied by the sound of violins, while grapes were trodden underfoot in an atmosphere steeped in tradition. Today, although the violins have fallen silent, the spirit of precision and respect for the vine endures, upheld by innovations that honor the authenticity of the terroir. The estate practices the delicate art of vinifying each parcel independently, demonstrating the commitment to preserving the uniqueness of each grape variety that makes up the Saint-Julien vineyard in the Médoc.
With its 90 hectares of vines, Château Beychevelle adheres to rigorous environmental practices, respecting natural balance and minimizing the use of chemicals. The harvest, often carried out by hand, allows for meticulous grape selection, thus ensuring the purity and authenticity of the wine. These thoughtful choices are reflected in every bottle, offering Grand Cru enthusiasts a wine that captures the essence of the Médoc terroir, rich in complexity and elegance.
The Wine of Château Beychevelle
The vineyard of Château Beychevelle is composed of three noble grape varieties that shape the identity of its wines: Cabernet Sauvignon, which dominates at 57 %, Merlot at 40 %, and Petit Verdot at 3 %. Each year, the estate’s signature cuvées, such as the Grand Vin, the Saint-Julien, and the Haut-Médoc, are vinified with absolute precision. This mastery of winemaking techniques ensures that each vintage fully expresses the soul of the Saint-Julien terroir, providing an unforgettable and elegant tasting experience for Grand Cru enthusiasts.
