Chateau Trotte Vieille, Saint Emilion 1er Grand Cru AOC, Chateau Trotte Vieille

About Chateau Trotte Vieille

Château TrotteVieille is a historic wine estate located in the Saint-Émilion appellation of Bordeaux, France. The property boasts a legacy that stretches back centuries, with its name believed to originate from a local legend involving an elderly woman who would regularly walk to the nearby village, earning the nickname “Trotte Vieille” or “old trotter.” The estate’s unique history is reflected in its ancient cellars and the presence of some of the oldest vines in Bordeaux, including a pre-phylloxera plot of Cabernet Franc.

The vineyard covers approximately 12 hectares, planted predominantly with Merlot, complemented by Cabernet Franc and a small proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon. The vines benefit from a favorable terroir composed of limestone and clay soils, which provide excellent drainage and contribute to the complexity and elegance of the wines. The estate is classified as a Premier Grand Cru Classé B in the Saint-Émilion classification, a testament to its consistent quality and prestige within the region.

Château TrotteVieille belongs to the Borie-Manoux family, who have overseen the property since 1949. The family’s commitment to tradition and innovation is evident in both the vineyard management and the winemaking process. Sustainable viticultural practices are prioritized, with careful attention paid to the health of the vines and the preservation of biodiversity. Harvesting is carried out by hand, ensuring that only the finest grapes are selected for vinification.

In the winery, the grapes undergo meticulous sorting before fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats. The winemaking team combines traditional techniques with modern technology to extract the purest expression of the vineyard’s character. Aging takes place in French oak barrels, with a significant proportion of new oak used each vintage to impart structure and complexity without overshadowing the fruit. The resulting wines are celebrated for their deep color, aromatic intensity, and harmonious balance of fruit, tannin, and freshness.

Château TrotteVieille’s grand vin is characterized by its elegance, finesse, and aging potential. The wine typically displays aromas of ripe red and black fruits, floral notes, and subtle hints of spice and minerality. On the palate, it is structured yet refined, with silky tannins and a long, lingering finish. The estate also produces a second wine, Dame de TrotteVieille, which offers a more approachable style while retaining the house’s hallmark sophistication.

Visitors to Château TrotteVieille are welcomed into a setting that combines historical charm with modern hospitality. The estate offers guided tours of its vineyards, cellars, and historic buildings, providing insight into both the winemaking process and the rich heritage of the property. Tastings allow guests to experience the full range of wines and appreciate the unique qualities that distinguish TrotteVieille within the landscape of Bordeaux.

Château TrotteVieille continues to build on its legacy, producing wines that reflect the exceptional terroir of Saint-Émilion and the dedication of the Borie-Manoux family. Through a harmonious blend of tradition, innovation, and respect for the land, the estate remains a benchmark for quality and elegance in Bordeaux winemaking.