The history of Issan Castle
FOR THE TABLE OF KINGS AND THE ALTAR OF THE GODS
We find records of the Château d'Issan dating back to the 12th century. It was originally a fortified castle belonging to the seigneury of theMothe-CantenacIt was then razed and rebuilt by theBaron d'Essenaultwhen he became its owner, preserving the medieval style for which it is still known today. In the meantime, through inheritances and marriages, the castle passed through the hands of numerous families, each contributing to its renown in their own way. One thinks in particular of the family ofNoailhan, the Meyracs, the Ségurs, the Salignacs, THEDe La Vergne, THEEscodeca de Boisseand finally, the family ofEssenault, who eventually renamed the castle by contracting his name in 1575. This is how theIssan Castleas we know it today. Over the centuries, the vineyard's reputation has already been established. For example, its wine was drunk at the wedding of Eleanor of Aquitaine to the future King of England.Thomas JeffersonThe future American president included it in his selection of Bordeaux vineyards, and it was his favorite wine.Emperor Franz Josephat the Austrian court. He is also credited with the motto of the estate.“For the table of kings and the altar of the gods”.
The Château d'Issan vineyard
THE QUALITY OF AN EXCEPTIONAL TERROIR
At the heart of the appellation ofMargaux, THEIssan CastleComprising 59 hectares, it boasts exceptional soil quality. Three distinct plots can be identified:
- 44 hectares of Margaux
- 5 hectares ofHaut-Médoc
- 10 hectares ofBordeaux Supérieur
This incredible terroir is primarily due to a temperate climate and a privileged geographical location. Indeed, the climate regulation caused by the proximity to the ocean and the estuary provides ideal growing conditions, resulting in exceptionally high-quality fruit. Furthermore, the soil's rapid drainage encourages the vines to root deeply, allowing them to absorb the full power of the terroir and draw upon everything that defines the estate's unique character.
Viticulture and winemaking
EXPERT EXPERTISE BENEFITING A UNIQUE TERROIR
The terroir ofIssan CastleWhile exceptional, its prestige stems from a know-how that has adapted to local conditions. The vines cultivated today haveon average 35 years old, and are the result of efforts led by theCruse familySince taking over the estate in 1945, they have dedicated three generations to cultivating this unique terroir, respecting its specific characteristics as much as possible. Thus, the harvest is done by hand, as is the spring plowing, which follows a traditional method to ensure a natural and optimal regeneration of the soil. Once the grapes are harvested, a maceration period of 18 to 24 days begins. The blend is then prepared in January and February, followed by the aging process, which lasts on average 18 months in [unclear - possibly "large cellars"].French oak barrels(50% new wood). This unique expertise from specialists in their field offerswines of incredible suppleness, finesse, elegance and longevity.You will undoubtedly be charmed by itsGrands Crus Classésfrom vintage to vintage, just as with its Second Wines.
