Chateau Beychevelle

Saint Julien

Located on a low plateau, the vineyard in AOC Saint-Julien borders the municipality of Cussac. Most of the plots have soil similar to that of Latour, consisting of coarse gravel and the drainage is enhanced by numerous canals. The castle was built in 1565 by Bishop Francois de Foix-Candale. His niece, who inherited it, married Jean Louis de Nogaret de la Valette, 1st Duke of Epernon, Grand Admiral of France and Governor of Guyenne, close to King Henri III. The duke's power and fame were such that the boats passing in front of the domain had to lower their sails as a sign of allegiance, hence the name Beychevelle (meaning baisse la voile, or lowering the sails in the local dialect). A new castle was built in the mid-18th century by the Marquis de Brassier, Baron de Beychevelle. The property was classified fourth growth in 1855. Several owners succeeded each other to date: the Japanese Suntory and the Castel group are now co-shareholders of GMF (Grands millésimes de France), which owns, among other things, the Chateau Beychevelle . The vineyard extends over 90 hectares within an area of 250 hectares and the grape variety is composed of 62 % Cabernet Sauvignon , 31 % Merlot , 5 % Cabernet Franc and 2 % Petit Verdot . It is managed through responsible farming. Château Beychevelle has become one of the best names in the Médoc region. 5 % Cabernet Franc and 2 % Petit Verdot . It is managed through responsible farming. Château Beychevelle has become one of the best names in the Médoc region. 5 % Cabernet Franc and 2 % Petit Verdot . It is managed through responsible farming. Château Beychevelle has become one of the best names in the Médoc region.