The estate is said to have been founded in 1415 by an army captain, a certain d’Estien, who, charmed by this exceptional terroir, planted vines there.
One of the best-known owners was Gabriel Combrouze, mayor of Saint-Émilion from 1896 to 1944 and deputy for the Gironde between 1906 and 1924.
Then from 1965 to 1980, the estate was part of the holdings of Seagram Barton et Guestier.
In 1980, Grand Pontet was bought by the Pourquet Bécot family. This vineyard, located a few steps from the great ramparts of Saint-Émilion, comprises 14 hectares in a single block, adjoining the 1st Grands Crus Classés Beau Séjour Bécot and Clos Fourtet. Some vines are more than 80 years old.
In the year 2000, a new approach was introduced, geared towards a return to basics (ploughing, short pruning, disbudding, gentle treatments, continued ageing in new casks), combined with the latest modern techniques.
Grand Pontet produces an unctuous, supple wine with notes of ripe fruit, elegant, spicy, very Saint-Émilion.
The high proportion of Merlot is found on the palate with roundness, but the terroir imposes its vigour on it.
Château Grand-Pontet
Saint-Émilion Grand Cru • 14 HA
