Chateau Ducru-Beaucaillou was originally known by the name of Bergeron until the early nineteenth century when Monsieur Ducru acquired the property. The Beaucaillou was subsequently added after a jokey conversation with a friend. Beaucaillou means ‘beautiful stones’ and is in reference to the large pebble-like stones found throughout the vineyard, not too dissimilar, though not quite as large, as those found further east in Chateauneuf-du-pape.

Shortly after Ducru’s acquisition, Ducru-Beaucaillou was awarded the great honour of being classed as a Second Growth amongst the famous 1855 Grand Cru Classé selection. An honour that has remained to this day. Later that century, Ducru-Beaucaillou was to be credited with the invention of the “Bordeaux mixture” which has been invaluable in the treatment of diseases of the vine such as powdery mildew.

Behind the beautiful label, the 90% Cabernet Sauvignon dominated wine deserves the high Grand Cru Classé accolade. 10% Merlot brings a fresh fleshiness to the wine but, overall, this wine is a heavy-weight. Flexing it’s muscles, it is rich, dark and brooding. Expect lots of hedgerow fruit backed up by an earthy cedar, truffle and tobacco note. This is a serious wine that will reward the most patient of drinkers in decades to come.