Chteau de Pitray has belonged to the Simard de Pitray family for over 600 years, making it the oldest family-owned property in Bordeaux. Although classified as Ctes de Castillon, the Chteau is located just eight kilometres east of Saint-Emilion and shares the same clay-limestone plateau. Jean is the 25th generation of the family to run this historic estate, which boasts 130 hectares of vineyards, forests and meadows. His mission has been to produce accessible, sustainably grown wines that are worthy of his ancestry and historic surroundings.

In 2020, Jean’s friend, winemaker Nina Mitjavile, inspired several changes at Chteau de Pitray after observing the untapped potential of its clay-limestone soils. These include drastically cutting yields in the vineyard, as well as reducing the use of new oak during ageing. Nina is now the Chteaus consultant winemaker. Having previously worked as head winemaker at her familys renowned right-bank estates, Tertre Rteboeuf and Roc de Cambes, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to Chteau de Pitray, as well as sharing Jeans meticulous approach in the vineyards and winery. Her involvement has been instrumental to the improved quality of these wines, leading to the relaunch of Chteau de Pitray with two distinct cuves from the 2020 vintage, Les Prairies and Pitray.

The water-holding capacity of the estates clay-limestone soils means the vines dont suffer from stress in warmer vintages and produce ripe and balanced fruit. The vineyards are farmed sustainably with a focus on promoting soil health and increasing biodiversity. Initiatives include planting oak trees to support local wildlife, as well as a no-herbicide policy in the vineyard. The 36 hectares of vines at Chteau de Pitray have an average age of 32 years, planted with 73% Merlot, 23% Cabernet Franc and 4% Malbec. The vineyard is divided into plots of different varieties, soil types and microclimates. These parcels are then vinified separately in thermo-regulated concrete tanks.

Production

Located eight kilometres east of St. Emilion, the 36 hectares of vines at Pitray share the same limestone and clay plateau. The vineyards have an average age of 32 years old and are farmed sustainably with a focus on promoting soil health and increasing biodiversity. No herbicides are used. The vineyards are divided into plots of different varieties, soil types and microclimates. ‘Les Prairies’ is a blend of 75% Merlot, 23% Cabernet Franc and 2% Malbec and a true reflection of the estate’s plantings.

The parcels are harvested and vinified separately in thermo-regulated concrete tanks before blending. ‘Les Prairies’ is a more fruit-forward and supple style. Most of the blend is therefore aged in stainless steel for 12 months, with the remaining 33% aged in one year-old barrels to lend additional roundness to the palate.

Tasting Notes

Les Prairies opens with a vibrant bouquet of ripe blackcurrant and subtle black tea aromas. On the palate, it shines with lively fruit character, while a gentle, silky texture is framed by graceful tannins, leading to a polished, lingering finish.