Jean Claude Berrouet, 44 years in Château Pétrus

 

Last year, I acquired  a few books and 2 of them mentioned Jean Claude Berrouet and his “faith” in terroir. The first one is the “Wine Bible” by Karen Mcneil, which is a great up to date book on wine – world-wide, that I actively recommend to anyone. The second one is the superb “Italy’s native wine grape terroir” by the super talented and hugely dynamic (especially on instagram) Ian d’Agata. Nonetheless, Jean Claude Berrouet is rather discreet, humble and poetic, some qualities that are pretty rare in our industry.

 

He studied oenology in Bordeaux, and started to work for Jean Pierre Moueix in 1964. Jean Pierre Moueix is an important French negociant based around Libourne, or the so-called right bank :

  • Château Pétrus
  • Château Fleur-Pétrus
  • Château Trotanoy
  • Château Hosanna
  • Château Bel-Morange…

And Dominus Estate in Napa Valley, California.

In various interview, Jean Claude Berrouet admits that working and being in charge of so many top estates would be absolutely impossible nowadays. If my memory is correct, Jean Claude has collaborated with the wine legend : Emile Peynaud, for the 2 first vintages. It should be noted that Peynaud’s influence is recognized by Jean Claude Berrouet himself. As result he favors elegance over extraction. Here, you will find a great interview that took place in Bordeaux, at “La Cité du Vin” – in French :

In 2007, Olivier Berrouet, his son, vinifies Château Pétrus and Jean Claude initiate a new life. As a result, he is consulting in various country such as China (Ch. Ronzi), Spain, Argentina, Israel…

However, what you probably don’t know is the hidden part of the iceberg ;-)) Since the mid 80’s Jean Claude owns 2 properties in Bordeaux (he also produces wine in is homeland, IROULEGUY, under the Herri Mina ‘s brand) Jean-François Berrouet, his other son, manage both estates :

Château Samion 2016

100% merlot (old vines)

2Ha

Aged in Oak, 20 months (15% New)

Although 1979 was the first vintage to be released,  Jean Claude Berrouet owns it since 1985. 100% merlot, and the vines are 45 years old (average). The style is elegant, round and richer than Vieux Château Saint André, especially if the wines are not matured. Although highly enjoyable in its youth, it does keep pretty well. Often beautiful when it reaches 8/10 years old.

We also have a few magums.

22.50 Euros a Bottle

50.00 Euros a Magnum

 

Vieux Château Saint André 2015

12ha (Old vines)

85% Merlot

15% Cabernet Franc

Aged in Oak, 15% new.

Mostly merlot, completed with cabernet Franc. It yields a more traditional and austere wine compared to Château Samion. On the other hand, Vieux Château Saint André is an excellent keeper, in the best vintages it can be easily cellared up to 20 years.

18.75 Euros a Botlle

40.00 Euros Magnum

 

If you are interested to acquire a few bottles, please do contact us!