LATITUDE
LONGITUDE
Welcome to Listrac-Médoc, where exceptional winemaking meets understated elegance! This distinguished appellation of Médoc, located northwest of Saint Emilion, produces approximately 3.5 million bottles annually (285,000 to 325,000 cases depending on the vintage), delivering structured reds with remarkable aging potential that deserves a place in any serious wine collector's cellar.
The Listrac AOC, established in 1957 by a dedicated group of winemakers, is a notable French wine region in Bordeaux. Recently attaining official recognition as an appellation of controlled origin, Listrac-Médoc has distinguished itself as one of the six communes within the Médoc. Its unique character and reputation for producing exceptional wines have contributed to its prominence.
Listrac-Médoc has an area of 668 hectares, with about 567 hectares planted with vines. Since its 1957 official recognition, this Bordeaux appellation has established itself through masterful blends of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. While its neighbours may command higher prices, Listrac-Médoc consistently delivers sophisticated wines that exemplify remarkable value.
The viticultural heritage here spans nine centuries, with the first vines planted by medieval monastics in the 12th century. The mid-20th century marked Listrac-Médoc's renaissance with its AOC designation. Today's vintners honour this legacy while embracing innovation, striking an impressive balance between tradition and progress.
Situated 15 kilometres northwest of the Bordeaux city center and 30 km away from Saint Emilion, Listrac-Médoc is located between Margaux and Moulis. Its inland location creates a distinct microclimate, while the exceptional clay-limestone soils impart remarkable complexity to its wines.
At 43 meters above sea level, these vineyards command some of the Médoc's highest terrain. This elevation, combined with 809 mm of annual rainfall, creates optimal conditions for grape cultivation, resulting in wines of notable precision and depth.
The terroir presents a sophisticated matrix of clay, limestone, and gravel terraces. This geological trifecta provides ideal moisture retention, mineral complexity, and root development—essential elements that define Listrac-Médoc's distinctive character.
The appellation's cooler microclimate promotes extended ripening periods, yielding Cabernet Sauvignon of exceptional structure and Merlot of remarkable finesse. This combination produces wines of notable complexity and admirable longevity.
Climate change presents significant challenges for this appellation of the Bordeaux wine region, requiring producers to implement adaptive viticultural strategies. Listrac-Médoc's response showcases its commitment to environmental stewardship and wine quality.
While operating in the shadow of more celebrated appellations, Listrac-Médoc turns this position to advantage. The region offers sophisticated Bordeaux wines at compelling price points, attracting discerning collectors seeking exceptional value.
The appellation demonstrates remarkable dynamism, embracing sustainable practices and refined winemaking techniques. An increasing emphasis on Merlot-forward blends reflects a sophisticated understanding of modern palates while maintaining the region's distinguished character.
Vineyard Hectares
WINERIES
GROWING DEGREE DAYS
Listrac-Medoc has an enchanting terroir where 4,400 hectares of majestic pine forests embrace distinguished vineyards. These forests, established during 19th-century land restoration, now host flourishing ecosystems. During vendange, witness nature's sophistication: noble vines laden with fruit create a striking contrast against the evergreen backdrop.
The appellation's elegant topography serves both aesthetic and viticultural excellence, providing essential drainage for distinguished vine cultivation. Ancient Roman thoroughfares and architectural gems punctuate the landscape, bearing testament to centuries of refined winemaking tradition.
Listrac-Médoc has a temperate climate, where winter temperatures can be as low as 7°C (45°F), while summer can reach 27°C (81°F). The appellation receives a refined 809 mm of annual precipitation, distributed with remarkable precision across the seasons.
Positioned at 43 meters above sea level, the elevated vineyards of this region benefit from great drainage and air circulation. The noble Gironde Estuary serves as nature's temperature regulator, ensuring optimal conditions for vine development while mitigating frost risk.
September and October are the perfect months to visit Listrac-Médoc. During these months, the appellation transforms into a theatre of viticultural excellence, with temperatures maintaining at an average of 24°C (75°F).
This period offers privileged access to harvest activities. Prestigious estates welcome enthusiasts to witness the decisive moments of vintage creation, from early morning harvesting rituals to evening degustations of their own wines. This is the perfect season to take private tours and join some of the best wine tastings that Listrac-Médoc has to offer.
The distinguished reds of Listrac-Médoc present compelling expressions of this remarkable terroir. The most common wines you will find here are the signature Cabernet Sauvignon-Merlot blend, as well as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc dominant blends.
In addition, some wineries are experimenting with white wine production, although the focus remains on the traditional red wine blends.
The appellation's moderate climate yields wines of distinctive refinement, while exceptional soils impart remarkable complexity.
Distinguished estates like Château Fourcas Hosten and Château Clarke showcase traditional excellence amid spectacular terroir.
Curated tastings and seasonal celebrations offer sophisticated engagement with the region's wine culture.
These refined wines complement classic French cuisine brilliantly, from robust Coq au Vin to elegant Colin à la bordelaise.
Select lodging options, from intimate chambres d'hôtes to sophisticated wine country hotels, facilitate immersive exploration of Listrac-Médoc's viticultural heritage.
In the distinguished vineyards of Listrac-Médoc, six noble grape varieties combine to create wines of remarkable character: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Carmenére and Malbec.
The distinguished reds of Listrac-Médoc present compelling expressions of this remarkable terroir. The most common wines you will find here are the signature Cabernet Sauvignon-Merlot blend, as well as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc dominant blends.
In addition, some wineries are experimenting with white wine production, although the focus remains on the traditional red wine blends.
The appellation's moderate climate yields wines of distinctive refinement, while exceptional soils impart remarkable complexity.
Distinguished estates like Château Fourcas Hosten and Château Clarke showcase traditional excellence amid spectacular terroir.
Curated tastings and seasonal celebrations offer sophisticated engagement with the region's wine culture.
These refined wines complement classic French cuisine brilliantly, from robust Coq au Vin to elegant Colin à la bordelaise.
Select lodging options, from intimate chambres d'hôtes to sophisticated wine country hotels, facilitate immersive exploration of Listrac-Médoc's viticultural heritage.