History, family, and wine go hand in hand in Bordeaux and Château Mayne-Vieil's history can be traced back across three influential families to the 1500s. Descended from the original owners, the Equerry de Paty, Lord of Mayne-Vieil, built the large cellars in the 17th century. Libournais vintners, the Fontemoings, established a new Fronsac vineyard to rival Saint-Emilion, while the Sèze family, owners for the last 100 years, restored and expanded the estate after World War I. The Merlot vines of their Fronsac vineyard can be seen from the house in its entirety as it rolls across the beautiful hill overlooking the Dordogne river. The single block vineyard covers 47 hectares (32 of which are in the Fronsac AOC), and is planted with 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc.
Château Mayne-Vieil uses permanent grass cover between the rows of vines to reduce the need for herbicide sprays and also to reduce the compaction of the soil as fewer passes by tractor are required. The increased competition for water and nutrients also reduces the vigour of the vines, thus reducing the need for green harvesting, reducing yields and increasing the concentration of the grapes. The château achieved HVE 3 accreditation in 2019. This certification recognises a high level of commitment to protecting and enriching the environment with the focus on biodiversity conservation, plant protection strategy, management of fertiliser use and management of water.
FBO667
Château Mayne-Vieil
Bordeaux, France
Old Merlot vines offer depth and complexity to this Right Bank Bordeaux.
FBO668
Château Mayne-Vieil
Bordeaux, France
Fronsac is a great value alternative to Saint-Émilion, but with a distinct character of its own.
