Château Grand Français
At Château Grand Français, wine is about tradition and modern know-how living in harmony. The symbiosis of terroir and people living their passion gave birth to natural and complex wines. Grand Français dates from the 15th century, deriving its name from the toponym Gascon which designates a region nestled between the l’Isle Valley and the Drôme, both affluent of the Dordogne River, located just north of Saint-Émilion. Château Grand Français covers over 19 acres of vines planted with 45% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, and, possibly most importantly, 25% Cabernet Franc which brings a distinctive aromatic complexity and elegance to their wines, allowing them to stand out in a sea of Bordeaux wine. Harvests are done by hand, fully de-stemmed, with cold maceration for a week. Each cultivar is vinified separately and blended after a careful selection for each cuvée.
Dominique Vacher, owner of Château Grand Français, chose to make the estate one of the fewer than 2% of Bordeaux producers who are certified organic because in his words “Wine is alive; because of its life, because I like to find life in wine, I chose to eliminate all chemicals from the estate and farm organically. Grand Français lives in a modest and chic environment, not flashy, not artificial. Soul, Spirit, and Elegance are the principles of each vintage”.
About the Winemaker:
The winery is represented by Winemaker and Export Manager Patricia Feraud. Patricia is committed to preserving the family legacy and producing world-class wines with modern, eco-friendly farming practices. With a deep passion for viticulture and a diverse background in the industry, Patricia is well-positioned to lead the Chateau in the coming years.
Prior to her time in the wine industry, Patricia studied Law, receiving her degree from the Université d’Agen. This academic foundation equipped her with the analytical abilities and comprehensive understanding of territorial dynamics needed to manage vineyards.
Patricia has played virtually every role at the winery in her time at Chateau Grand Francais: directing seasonal vineyard operations, supervising teams, overseeing all aspects of quality assurance at the winery, and developing new aromatic profiles that faithfully reflect the unique terroir of Chateau Grand Francais.
Patricia’s future goals include strengthening the Château’s position in emerging markets, continuing to innovate production practices, and promoting the values of organic and sustainable viticulture globally.
Wines from Château Grand Français
Château Grand Français Bordeaux Supérieur
Blend: 80% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc.
Aging: 10 to 14 months in new and older French oak 600 liter barrels
The château is located north of Saint-Émilion on the hillside of the l’Isle Valley where wines have been cultivated since the 15th century. Ruby robed, this wine expresses sophisticated aromas of Morello cherries, vanilla, and spices; after aerating for a few moments, the nose develops deeper fruit compote flavors, creating a harmonious complexity. A composed yet ample attack resolves to earthy fresh black and dried red fruit flavors graced with delicate floral elements, building to a handsomely well-incorporated woodiness and structure before settling into a long, dark, and contemplative finish. Wonderful with roast beef tenderloin with Marchand de Vin sauce, game meats, and aged English cheddar. Certified organic.