1961 Bottle of Chateau La Lagune

Location: Geographically, the first classified chateau that one meets on the road to the Medoc when coming from the city of Bordeaux. Chateau La Lagune is 16 kilometers from the City of Bordeaux. It does not bear the name of Ludon, the commune that it occupies, but is labeled Haut-Medoc.

Vineyards and Grape variety: The entire Chateau La Lagune property is 250 acres of which 173 acres are under vines. The vineyards are planted with 55%Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc, 20% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot. (Average age of vines - 25 years.)

History: The chateau was built in the first half of the 18th century. In 1855, when it gained its third growth classification, Madame Veuve Jouffrey-Piston owned the property. In 1958 it was purchased by Mr. Brunet who rebuilt the property, replanting the vines and restoring the chateau. In 1961 it was sold to the Champagne house of Ayala.

In 1964 Madame Boyrie, the first woman manager and cellar master in Bordeaux, replanted the entire vineyard at one time in rows spaced 160 cm apart.

Vinification and aging: Productions is about 33,000 cases. The vinification follows contemporary methods. 100% new oak barrels each year.

Style: Since Chateau La Lagune is the only classified growth that is planted on fine mindelian gravel, nearly sandy in aspect, the wine has been described as Pomerol and Graves like. It is rich and fleshy and powerful.

Food: Excellent with roast game and hearty meals.