Château Duhart-Milon

Château Duhart Milon is owned by its very illustrious neighbour Château Lafite-Rothschild, with whom it shares a vineyard management and wine making team. Duhart is said to have been a pirate in the service of Loius XV who settled in the Médoc in his retirement. Indeed, the "pirate's house" stood by the Gironde until the 1950's and is pictured on the label. His vineyard was united with Mandavy-Milon in the 1830's by the Castéja family. Earning 4th Growth status was a high point for Duhart-Milon with the next 100+ years being a period of some decline. Vineyards were sold off (notably to the Batailleys) and the wines declined considerably in quality. By the time Baron Eric de Rothschild bought Duhart-Milon in 1962 it was in a very sorry state with barely 17ha under vine. Rothschild ownership saw the vineyards completely re-planted, and now using the same team who makes Lafite, this 46-hectare estate is ever increasing its reputation for excellent, consistent quality, producing great wines over recent vintages.

Complex, rich and brooding nose – more powerful than normal – this is a succulent, almost decadent Pauillac. Powerful, ripe and creamy black fruits, almost confiture in style. There is also a fine sprinkle of spice and sweet chestnut. I like the twist of minerality that adds graphite characters to the sweet lush core. Long, broad, powerful yet complex and very fine

Enjoy with a classic beef wellington.

Vinification includes a 20 day maceration and ageing inupt o 50% new oak barrels.