Château Priban
The history of Château Priban, deeply rooted in Bordeaux’s aristocratic tradition, is reflected in the care given to each vintage. Its unique terroir of Garonne gravel and its commitment to sustainable viticulture make this wine a true example of authenticity and craftsmanship. Today, managed by the owners of Château Maucamps, it continues a legacy of excellence, combining modernity with respect for winemaking traditions.
History
Château Priban traces its origins back to the 18th century when it was mentioned as a residence belonging to the Bordeaux aristocracy. While it does not appear on the Cours de la Garonne map of 1759, it is depicted on Belleyme’s map, created between 1762 and 1778, already surrounded by vineyards. The estate changed hands several times until the French Revolution, when it was owned by the Roborel family.
In 1810, cadastral records show it as a central manor flanked by two wings extending toward the road. Its development accelerated in the 1830s when Pierre Andrieux Chadeuil, mayor of Macau from 1852 to 1859, acquired the estate. Under his leadership, significant renovations were undertaken, including the construction of three pavilions. The estate underwent further changes in 1879 under Théodore Bellemer, a wine merchant, who modernized the infrastructure by adding new agricultural outbuildings, worker housing, a dovecote, and a water reservoir.
During the 20th century, the pavilions were demolished, and the estate regained a more understated silhouette, resembling its pre-1886 appearance. Today, Château Priban, once part of the historic jurisdiction of Cantemerle, is managed by the owners of Château Maucamps.
The Vineyard
Located in the Haut-Médoc appellation, the vineyard of Château Priban spans 6 hectares in Macau-en-Médoc. It is rooted in Garonne gravel, a well-draining soil that promotes optimal grape ripening. With a planting density of 6,500 vines per hectare, the estate ensures controlled, high-quality production. The vines, with an average age of 20 years, consist of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon.
Committed to environmental sustainability, the estate practices sustainable viticulture and has held HVE 3 certification since 2021. Grape ripeness is closely monitored through both technological analysis and berry tasting. Harvesting is carried out mechanically to ensure the grapes are picked at perfect maturity.
Winemaking & Aging
A parcel selection is carried out to extract the best potential from each terroir. After full destemming, the must ferments in stainless steel and concrete tanks under temperature control, maintained at around 28°C. Three daily pump-overs optimize the extraction of aromas and structure. The maceration lasts 28 days, enhancing the wine’s concentration and complexity.
Aging continues for 12 months in French oak barrels, used for the first or second time. This barrel aging process imparts finesse and elegance while preserving the fruit’s expression and the terroir’s distinctive character.
Wine Character
Château Priban reveals a deep red hue with garnet reflections. Its nose is intense and complex, combining aromas of ripe black fruits, blackcurrant, and prunes, enhanced by spicy and subtly toasted notes from barrel aging.
On the palate, the attack is broad and velvety, supported by fine, elegant tannins. The structure, both powerful and well-balanced, extends into a lingering finish with hints of cocoa and licorice. This wine authentically expresses the character of the Haut-Médoc, combining indulgence with excellent aging potential.
