Producer Profile
Château Grand-Puy Ducasse
Château Grand-Puy Ducasse is a renowned estate within Pauillac, on Bordeaux’s left bank. They are recognised for being one of the most representative of the diversity of Pauillac’s soils. They were classified as a Fifth Growth estate in 1855, and they have only grown in property and reputation since then, with Neal Martin describing the estate as “the dark horse of Pauillac”.
The history of Grand-Puy Ducasse dates all the way back to the middle of the 18th Century when Arnaud Ducasse bought a small house near the Gironde River, a plot which would soon be the location of the Château. The estate changed hands several times over the years, and it was eventually sold in 2004 to CA Grand Crus, who also own Château Meyney. They renovated the vineyards, recruited Hubert de Bouard as a consultant, and things have never been better. By 2012, they had completely renovated the estate, and a new era was born.
Whilst their cellar is within the town of Pauillac, their vineyards are split into several plots throughout the appellation. In total, they have 40 hectares under vine, planted to 59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot. As their vines are broken up into several parcels, they all have unique identities which are reflective of the terroir. In the north, the soils are more concentrated by limestone and marl. Whereas in the southern end, you find more clay and gravel.
