Château La Tessonnière
A passionate advocate for the environment, Château La Tessonnière has been certified High Environnemental Value (HEV 3) since 2019. Special attention is given to biodiversity and ecological impact. Additionally, a special cuvée, Bois du Roi, is aged in amphorae to enhance the fruit’s expression, resulting in a wine with soft, well-integrated tannins.
History
Château La Tessonnière is a historic estate, rooted in the heart of the Médoc on the left bank of the Gironde estuary, between the communes of Civrac-en-Médoc and Bédagan. Its name comes from tessoun, the Gascon term for a badger’s den, in homage to the abundance of these burrows on the first parcels acquired by the current owner’s great-grandfather. This emblematic animal, a symbol of patience, humility, and hard work, reflects the family values passed down through four generations.
Since 1995, the family estate has undergone a revival, combining modernized management with deep respect for Médoc traditions, earning the Cru Artisan designation in 1997. This rich heritage and passion continue to produce exceptional wines today.
The Vineyard
Spanning 20 hectares, the vineyard is rooted in a clay-limestone terroir—an ideal combination, with clay retaining moisture and limestone ensuring proper drainage. Planted at a density of 6,500 vines per hectare, it consists primarily of traditional Médoc grape varieties: 50% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petit Verdot, and 4% Cabernet Franc. Benefiting from optimal exposure and sunlight, the vines have an average age of 25 years, contributing to the balance and complexity of the grapes.
The estate follows sustainable viticulture principles, with careful monitoring of grape maturity and a responsible approach to phytosanitary treatments.
Winemaking & Aging
Each parcel is vinified separately, allowing the unique characteristics of the terroir to be fully expressed. After total destemming, the must ferments in temperature-controlled cement and stainless steel tanks at around 26°C. Daily pump-overs and extended maceration enhance the wine’s structure and aromatic complexity. Aged for 16 months in tanks, the wine retains its purity and fruitiness while ensuring excellent aging potential.
The vinification of Cuvée Le Fleuron begins with a meticulous parcel selection to fully capture the richness and typicity of the terroir. After total destemming, fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled cement and stainless steel tanks at 26°C, preserving the wine’s aromatic elegance. Two daily pump-overs allow for a gentle and gradual extraction of tannins and aromas, while extended maceration enhances complexity and depth.
Aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, 25% of which are new, this cuvée develops an elegant structure, subtle oak influence, and excellent aging potential.
Wine Character
The wines of Château La Tessonnière stand out for their roundness, finesse, and expressive fruit character. The grape varieties create a perfect balance between freshness and power, with Merlot bringing softness and fruitiness, Cabernet Sauvignon adding structure, and Petit Verdot contributing a hint of spice.
