Château Haut-Meneau

Located in Saint-Paul, in the Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux AOC appellation, Château Haut Meneau is a wine estate steeped in history. A former stopover on the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, this property was classified Cru Bourgeois in 1850 and was founded in 1825. The Bravard family became the owner in 1988, and Jacques-Henri Bravard took over in 1998 after obtaining his national oenology diploma in 1996. Passionate about his profession, he began practicing organic farming in 2009, with a first certified vintage in 2012. His philosophy is clear: respect for the terroir and passing on a healthy vineyard to future generations. Today, his ambition is to develop white wine production, a project that could be spearheaded by his daughter Juliette, currently studying oenology in Bordeaux.

Available directly from the estate on Avenue des Vins.

What makes the estate's terroir so distinctive?

An exceptional terroir

The estate covers 20 hectares, part of which lies on south-facing clay-limestone hillsides, a soil renowned for its ability to reflect light and concentrate the aromas of the berries. This type of soil, both poor and well-drained, allows for moderate water stress, ideal for the vines. The vineyard also includes 30% gravelly soils, rich in gravel, which are ideal for Bordeaux grape varieties such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Sauvignon Blanc. Since switching to organic farming, Château Haut Meneau has strived to produce pesticide-free wines that faithfully reflect the expression of the terroir. The satisfaction of a job well done is at the heart of the estate's philosophy. This qualitative approach allows for the creation of vintages that respect both the environment and consumers.

How has the estate's story been passed down through the family?

A passion passed from generation to generation

The estate's history is punctuated by memorable anecdotes, testifying to its renown and deep roots in the wine world. Château Haut Meneau was even featured in the famous wine manga "Les Gouttes de Dieu," an unexpected recognition that surprised and honored the Bravard family. Indeed, Château Haut Meneau was the first AOC Côtes de Blaye estate to feature in the famous manga. The winemaker also has lasting memories of his first vintage in 1998, which received a gold medal and the Prix Spécial de Blaye, a source of pride that has reinforced his quest for quality. Château Haut Meneau is more than just a vineyard; it's a place of sharing and conviviality. Its owner evokes it with a powerful image: an aperitif with friends as the sun sets over the vines. This vision perfectly illustrates the estate's soul: a wine made to be savored and shared, with family or friends. This authenticity and conviviality reflect their motto inscribed on a beam in the vat room: "Red or white, everything goes to hell." Between tradition and modernity, respect for the terroir and family transmission, rigor and passion, Château Haut Meneau stands out among the vineyards of the Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux appellation. Its commitment to organic farming, its exceptional terroir and the quality of its wines make it an essential property for lovers of great Bordeaux wines.

Discover the wines of Château Haut-Meneau directly from the estate, at the estate price, in a short supply chain on Avenue des Vins.

Frequently asked questions about Château Haut-Meneau

Where is Château Haut Meneau located?

The estate lies in Saint-Paul, on the right bank of the Gironde, within the Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux appellation. Its plots sit on south-facing slopes, over soils that mix clay-limestone and gravel.

Does Château Haut Meneau farm organically?

Yes. The organic shift began in 2009, with a first certified vintage in 2012. The vineyard is worked without pesticides, with real care for the soil and for handing on healthy vines.

Which grape varieties grow at Château Haut Meneau?

The 20 hectares combine clay-limestone rises and a share of gravel soils. They are planted with Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc, the backbone of the estate's reds and whites.

Who runs Château Haut Meneau today?

Jacques-Henri Bravard, a qualified oenologist, has led the property since 1998. His family has owned it since 1988, and his daughter Juliette, studying oenology in Bordeaux, may drive its white wine project.

Why did Château Haut Meneau appear in the manga The Drops of God?

The property was drawn into this famous Japanese wine comic, and it was the first estate from the Côtes de Blaye appellation to feature in it. A recognition that stayed with the Bravard family.