Château Pichon-Longueville au Baron de Pichon-Longueville
Officially classified a Second Growth 2ème Grand Cru Classé in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, has firmly established itself as a "Super Second" - a term used for estates that consistently rival First Growths in quality while offering better value.
Gallery
History
Pierre Desmezures de Rauzan, a wine merchant and steward of Château Latour and Margaux, purchases vineyard plots near Latour, creating Enclos Rauzan.
In 1694, the estate is formally established when Rauzan's daughter, Thérèse, marries Baron Jacques Pichon de Longueville, and the vineyards become part of her dowry. The property is named " Château Pichon Longueville Baron". The estate remains under the Pichon-Longueville family, producing wine under their stewardship.
In 1850, Baron Joseph de Pichon-Longueville divided the estate upon his death:
Pichon Baron goes to his two sons, led by Baron Raoul and Pichon Comtesse de Lalande goes to his three daughters.
Baron Raoul commissions the iconic Renaissance-style château with twin turrets, which still stands today. In 4 years times, Pichon Baron classified as a Second Growth in the Bordeaux Wine Official Classification under Napoleon III.
The Pichon-Longueville family sells the estate to the Bouteiller family, who manage it for 50 years, decline due to lack of investment, machine harvesting, and inconsistent quality.
In 1987, the insurance company AXA Millésimes acquired the estate, making a modern revival. The company invited Jean-René Matignon to join as the technical director, ending machine harvesting and improving quality. Jean-Michel Cazes oversees renovations, replanting of vineyards, and upgrades to facilities.
Major renovations, including new fermentation rooms and cellars, were undertaken in 1988. The ornamental pool and underground "Nautilus" cellar have been added.
1989 and 1990 are their first critically acclaimed vintages of the modern era, making Pichon Baron's return to excellence.
Château Pichon Baron, a Premier Cru (First Growth) vineyard in the Pauillac appellation of Bordeaux, has maintained a strong reputation and consistent quality.
From 2000 to present, Château Pichon Baron has sustained its position as a top-tier Bordeaux estate, producing wines that are highly sought after, well-regarded critically, and recognized for their ageing potential and consistency.