Château de Camarsac, Bordeaux Supérieur 2019

Bordeaux Supérieur is often perceived as somewhat of a catch-all appellation, but Château de Camarsac is a perfect example of why it is worthwhile to seek out the families and properties that make up the jewels of this appellation.

Camarsac is in fact a medieval fortress, and celebrated its 700th anniversary in 2012. It is said that over the years it has been home to some great historical figures such as the Black Prince (it is often locally known as the ‘Black Prince’s Castle’), and is one of the most striking properties in Bordeaux.

It was purchased by the legendary Lurton family in 1973, whose other properties include Brane-Cantenac, Durfort-Vivens, Bouscaut and Climens. Since 2008 it has been run by Thierry Lurton, who took the reins from his sister Berenice so she could devote her full attention to Château Climens. Thierry has fond childhood memories of the property, but his career initially took him to work on social projects in Brazil before he returned to work with his siblings in Bordeaux in 1995.

Thierry has done much to revive de Camarsac, including expanding the vineyard area to 85 hectares, establishing a replanting programme, and notably increasing the proportion of merlot in the vineyards, which thrives on the estate’s soils (which are mostly well-hydrated clay and gravel on limestone). A new cellar was built for the 2010 harvest, but restoration of the château has barely begun.

Thierry’s aim at Château de Camarsac is to produce delicious red wines that are smooth yet structured. The wine is aged in stainless-steel tanks for eight months first before being transferred to oak barrels for a further six months, increasing its complexity and character.