History
Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, often referred to as Pichon Lalande, has a rich history dating back to 1686 when Pierre de Mazure Rauzan, a wealthy Bordeaux merchant, established the vineyard near the seigniory of Latour. The estate was later inherited by his daughter, who married Jacques François de Pichon Longueville, a prominent Bordeaux politician, in 1694. The estate took the name Pichon Longueville and remained in the family until it was divided among the children of Baron Joseph de Pichon Longueville in 1850.
Virginie de Pichon Longueville, Comtesse de Lalande, inherited 60% of the estate and renamed it Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande. She commissioned the architect Duphot to build the elegant chateau, which was completed in the 1850s. In 1855, the estate was classified as a Second Growth in the Bordeaux Classification. After facing challenges including powdery mildew and the Great War, the estate was sold to a consortium led by Louis and Edouard Miailhe in 1925. The Miailhe family managed the estate until 2006, when it was acquired by the Champagne House Louis Roederer.
Terroir
Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, located in the Pauillac appellation of Bordeaux, France, is renowned for its unique terroir. The estate's soil is a mix of gravel and clay, which contributes to the refined elegance of its wines. This blend of soil types allows for excellent drainage, a crucial factor for grape development. The gravel soils encourage the roots to burrow deep into the soil, seeking nourishment, which enhances the overall quality of the grapes.
The climate in Pauillac is characterized by hot summers and mild winters, influenced by the Atlantic maritime climate. This climate, combined with the specific soil composition, shapes the terroir and influences the flavor profile of the wines. The vineyard's terroir is further distinguished by its harmonious balance of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, which contributes to the wine's exceptional character and lack of harshness. The terroir of Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande is thus a blend of its unique soil composition and the region's specific climate, resulting in wines known for their elegance and finesse.
