Château Malescasse is situated in the commune of Lamarque, the highest point between Margaux and Saint-Julien, right next to the Gironde estuary. Acquired by Philippe Austruy in 2012, this estate has been renowned since ancient times and possesses a superb terroir. The 40-hectare single vineyard is managed as a grand cru and the modernised winery enables the precise vinification of small batches.Soil The rolling gravel hillsides of Pyrenean origin date from the Quaternary period. The geological variability of the soil is the result of historic river currents.Growing The soil receives our full attention, in the form of both mechanical and traditional maintenance. In order to improve its structure and create the necessary conditions for active microbial life, an autumn loosening of the soil is followed by cereal cover crops between the rows of vines. This is carried out every year. The plant’s vigorous growth is then controlled in a bespoke way, vine plant by vine plant, plot by plot. The vineyard is monitored in a scientific and integrated way. All means are implemented and used according to both needs and climate. This includes the use of organic cultivation methods, biocontrol, sexual confusion, etc. The manual harvest is carried out in open crates to protect the grapes.2018 Vintage A wet winter and spring resulted in heterogeneous flowering and outbreaks of mildew. We had to keep a close eye on the vineyard! The bud burst was delayed due to a dry and cold February. May and June were also particularly rainy. On the other hand, a dry summer resulted in grapes with a high concentration. During August, intermittent showers ensured the growth cycle was not hindered. Some rain in September alternated with lovely sunny days and, when combined with a temperature which was 3° above the usual average, enabled the grapes to reach full ripeness. The grape harvest went smoothly. In terms of quality, this 2018 vintage is considered to be one of the best of its kind, although it was produced in low quantities.
