Château Malmaison, Baronne Nadine de Rothschild

The Château Malmaison vineyard, situated in the Moulis wine-growing area of the Medoc, is one of the oldest in Medoc. This property, which adjoins Château Clarke, was also purchased by the Baron Edmond de Rothschild in 1973, with the intention of recreating a large estate. Although in a state of total neglect at the time of purchase, the Château Malmaison has now been restored to its former glory. The vineyard was completely replanted between 1974 and 1978, and now extends to 24 perfectly maintained hectares. The clay-limestone soil is ideally suited to a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. This particular mixture of grape varieties, dominated by the Merlot, assists  the smooth and rounded wines so typical of this specific area. At each grape harvest, the grapes are picked by hand and are then meticulously sorted before being vatted. The winemaking process then proceeds in automatically thermo-regulated stainless steel vats. Lastly, the wines are matured from between 14 to 18 months in old and new barrels. Thus, the wine produced by Malmaison allies delicacy, suppleness and elegance with a rich and fruity bouquet. Since 1997, the Baroness Nadine de Rothschild has continued the proud tradition of the estate in accordance with the wishes of her husband.

 

Awards: Concours Mondial de Bruxelles 2007 silver medal, Decanter World Wine Awards 2007, Recommended Guide Hachette des Vins 2008.

Food and wine: Drink with grilled meat, and french cheese. Chinese roast duck or pigeon accompanied with pepper salt, Japanese Hayashi curry, Korean Bi Bim Bop (beef with fried eggs).

Advised serving temperature: 18°C.