Chateau Barde-Haut

"We invested in Château Barde-Haut because we love the appellation," said Hélène Gracin-Lévêque, Gracin-Cathiard’s daughter, who oversees sales and marketing for the family business. "It is a small property, which already produces a grand cru. We aim to continue this policy by developing its unique personality and respecting the identity of its terroir."

Château Barde-Haut’s vineyard encompasses 42 acres, which are planted to 75 percent Merlot and 25 percent Cabernet Franc. The estate produces about 3,000 cases of a St.-Emilion grand cru and 3,000 cases of a second label, called Le Vallon du Château Barde-Haut.

Gracin-Cathiard is bringing in consultant Michel Rolland to help improve wine quality at the estate.