Château d'Issan, 12th century wine estate in Margaux-Cantenac, France
Château d'Issan is a wine estate dating back to the 12th century in Margaux-Cantenac, spanning approximately 44 hectares of vineyards. The vineyard contains 62 percent Cabernet Sauvignon and 38 percent Merlot grapes, producing around 100,000 bottles of wine each year.
The estate's wine was served at Eleanor of Aquitaine's wedding to King Henry II in 1152, marking a turning point in regional trade. This royal connection helped establish Bordeaux wines in English markets and launched centuries of commerce between the wine region and England.
The estate reflects traditional Bordeaux winemaking practices passed down through generations, visible in how the vineyard is managed and its wines are crafted. This approach connects the land and its people to centuries of local wine culture.
The estate offers guided tours that include visits to production facilities and cellars, followed by wine tastings. It is best to plan a visit in advance and come prepared to spend time learning about the winemaking process firsthand.
The château stands surrounded by a water-filled moat that gives the estate its distinctive appearance and adds to its historical charm. The vineyard's gravel and clay soils benefit from proximity to the Gironde estuary, which influences the character of the wines produced here.
Location: Margaux-Cantenac
Website: http://chateau-issan.com
GPS coordinates: 45.03788,-0.65817
Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:42
The wine estates of Bordeaux spread across the Gironde department and produce wines under more than 60 appellations. The châteaux combine winemaking traditions with modern cellar techniques. Many properties open their doors to visitors, offering tours of vineyards, fermentation rooms, and barrel cellars. The grand estates of the Médoc, such as Château Margaux, Château Latour, or Château Mouton Rothschild, rank among the most recognized addresses in the region. In Saint-Émilion, châteaux cluster around the medieval village. The Entre-deux-Mers area features numerous smaller family operations. Wine routes traverse landscapes of vine rows and historic buildings. The architecture of the châteaux ranges from medieval fortresses to 18th and 19th-century residences. Some estates have commissioned contemporary cellars from architects like Norman Foster or Jean Nouvel. Tasting rooms allow visitors to sample different vintages and blends. Many domains also organize oenology workshops and receptions in their vineyards.
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