Armailhac Castle
350 years of history
THEArmailhac CastleIt originally belonged to the brothers Dominique and Guilhem Armailhacq, who acquired it in 1680. At the time, they were thus the first owners of the plots of land in Pauillac. Replanted at the end of the 17th century, it then becameChâteau Mouton d'Armailhacqand its vineyards covered 16 hectares. In 1831, Armand d'Armailhacq, an agricultural engineer and the new vineyard manager, employed the best techniques to improve the quality of Mouton d'Armailhacq. Thanks to tireless work, the wines sold for twice the price of neighboring wines, which were nevertheless better rated. Sales increased considerably, and Mouton d'Armailhacq eventually achieved a prestigious classification.5th Grand Cru in 1855.
The Rothschild family
a visionary strategy
In 1878, the vineyard covered more than 70 hectares and belonged to the Count of Ferrand, heir of Armailhacq. He continued to develop it, but war and economic crises forced him to sell it as a life annuity to his new neighbor, theBaron Philippe de Rothschildin 1933. A year later, he died, making the Baron the new owner. From then on, the Baron associated it with Château Mouton Rothschild. From 1956 to 1988, it bore the name Mouton Baron Philippe, then Mouton Baronne Philippe. At the Baroness's own decision, it finally reverted to its original name in 1989, although spelled without the final "q".
Marked by unwavering personal commitment, a spirit of independence, and a visionary long-term strategy, Baron Philippe de Rothschild's long reign was punctuated by a series of pivotal decisions, some of which revolutionized the world of wine. In 1968, major renovations were undertaken, including the rebuilding of the vat room and cellars, and the vineyard, which had grown to nearly 70 hectares, was reduced to its current size of 50 hectares.
Fifth Growth in 1855
complexity, finesse and subtlety
The 50-hectare vineyard is situated in the heart of a superb park, whose deep, clayey gravel rests on a clay-limestone subsoil, givingArmailhac CastleIts characteristic finesse and elegance. The grape varieties are 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot. The average age of the vines is 43 years, and the grapes are harvested entirely by hand. The Château thrives thanks to its respect for traditional values. To ensure their integrity and preserve all their flavors, the grapes are then transported via mobile vats to the fermentation tanks. Vinification takes place in stainless steel tanks for a total maceration period of 15 to 20 days. The meticulous care given to each plot gives the wine its aromatic intensity as well as its complex and full-bodied structure.
