Chateau Monbousquet, located in the Saint-Emilion appellation on the right bank of Bordeaux, France, is a Grand Cru Classé estate. It is also the first winery owned by Gerard Perse (acquired in 1993), who also owns Chateau Pavie, a Premier Grand Cru Classé A. Since 1994, the winery has consistently produced wines of exceptionally high quality. Its 1995 and 1998 vintages received praise from Robert Parker in blind tastings, outperforming many renowned wineries.
Chateau Monbousquet's history dates back to 1540, when it was owned by Francois de Lescours. After changing hands several times over the centuries, it was purchased by Comte de Vassal-Montviel in 1858, who continuously expanded the vineyards, leading to the winery's prosperity and increased reputation, eventually making it one of the largest wineries in the Saint-Émilion region. After several more changes of ownership, it was acquired by Gerard Perse, the current owner of the First Growth Chateau Pavie. After the purchase, they upgraded the drainage system and winemaking equipment, built a new cellar, and hired the renowned winemaker Michel Rolland as a consultant. Under the Perse family's meticulous management, the quality of Chateau Monbousquet's wines has improved dramatically. In 2006, Chateau Monbousquet was successfully upgraded to a Grand Cru Classé in Saint-Émilion.
Winemaking
The grape composition of Chateau Monbousquet includes 60% Merlot, the most representative grape of Saint-Émilion on the Right Bank, which brings rich fruit aromas and roundness to the wine; 30% Cabernet Franc, a relatively late-ripening grape that fully matures in Monbousquet, exhibiting an extremely charming and delicate texture; and the final 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, which strengthens the wine's structure and contributes tannins. The grapes are hand-harvested and fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. After fermentation, the wine is aged in new oak barrels for 18 to 24 months. During aging, the winemakers perform racking every three months. To maintain the purity of the wine's flavor, Chateau Monbousquet wines are never clarified or filtered before bottling.
Besides producing its flagship wine, Chateau Monbousquet, the estate also produces its second label, Angelique de Monbousquet, and the white wine, Chateau Monbousquet blanc.
Monbousquet was Gerard Perse's first acquisition. From a winemaking novice, he went on to own some of the top Right Bank estates, including Pavie, Pavie Decesse, Bellevue Mondotte, Clos Lunelles in Castillon, and Esprit de Paive, among others. Every estate he acquired seemed destined for success, thanks to his meticulous work ethic and perfectionist mindset. Those interested can explore Gerard Perse's legendary story.
