Domaine Bonabaud, a new winemaker in the Bordeaux region

Despite historical challenges such as the Great War, the Spanish flu pandemic, and the phylloxera crisis, Domaine Bonabaud has preserved and expanded its vineyard. In 1946, it was awarded a Premier Cru classification in the Feret Guide of the Great Wines of Bordeaux. In 2017, Fabien Bonabaud, captivated by this 25-hectare estate, took over the Château. The vineyard, situated on a large undulating plateau, benefits from an exceptional natural setting, surrounded by forests, rivers, and pastures. The sunset paints hues reminiscent of Atlantic sea spray, while the mornings are often misted by the nearby forest.

Available directly from the estate on Avenue des Vins.

What defines the estate's wines?

Wines of Great Finesse

The philosophy of Domaine Bonabaud is to preserve the purity of its wines without using artificial methods. The wines are crafted with great care, with moderate barrel aging and a minimal use of sulfites. The light and subtle tannins of the unique terroir, composed of sands and small tertiary gravels, allow the wines to express their full finesse. These authentic and elegant wines reflect their terroir while remaining accessible to wine enthusiasts.

How is the domaine approaching sustainability?

A Sustainable Transition

Fabien Bonabaud believes that perfectly integrating the vineyard into its ecosystem is essential, beyond certifications. The estate adheres to the Natura 2000 charter and is certified as High Environmental Value (HVE). In 2021, it began the conversion to organic farming, aiming to market its first organic Bordeaux wines in 2024.

At the same time, Fabien is committed to restoring the vineyard's traditional grape varieties. He plans to replant indigenous grapes that were previously abandoned, such as Malbec and Carmenère, alongside the predominant Merlot. These initiatives aim to restore the vineyard's balance and enrich the diversity of its wines.

What does the estate stand for?

Wines with a Soul

With a forward-thinking approach and a deep respect for its terroir, Domaine Bonabaud perfectly embodies its slogan: "Wines with a Soul."

Discover the wines of Domaine Bonabaud directly from the estate, at the estate price, in a short supply chain on Avenue des Vins.

Frequently asked questions about Domaine Bonabaud

Where is Domaine Bonabaud located?

The estate is built around Château Gauthier, on the right bank of the Gironde. Its 25 hectares roll across a gentle plateau framed by woods, streams and meadows.

Which grape varieties grow at Domaine Bonabaud?

Merlot leads the blend today. Fabien Bonabaud is bringing back balance by replanting Malbec and Carmenère, two local varieties that grew here when Château Gauthier first began.

Is Domaine Bonabaud organic?

The estate holds High Environmental Value certification and follows the Natura 2000 charter. Its conversion to organic farming started in 2021, with the first organic Bordeaux cuvées expected in 2024.

What style are Domaine Bonabaud's wines?

Expect reds built on finesse, with light tannins drawn from a soil of sand and tertiary gravel. Barrel aging stays restrained and sulfites are kept low, so the fruit leads the way.

How old is Château Gauthier?

The château dates back to 1919 and earned a Premier Cru ranking in the Féret Guide to the Great Wines of Bordeaux in 1946. Fabien Bonabaud took over the property in 2017.