Grand Bateau Blanc Bordeaux AOC 2020

Winery Background and History

Grand Bateau is a collaborative project between Maison Barrière and Château Beychevelle, a renowned Fourth Growth estate in the 1855 Bordeaux classification. The label’s emblem, a majestic galley ship, pays homage to the estate’s historical ties to the Duc d’Épernon, Admiral of France in the 16th century. The name “Beychevelle” is derived from “Baisse-Vaille,” meaning “lower sails,” a command given as ships passed the Admiral’s estate. Grand Bateau aims to bring the elegance and tradition of Bordeaux’s Left Bank wines to a broader audience, offering wines that reflect the region’s heritage and quality.

Producer and Winemaker

The Grand Bateau Blanc 2020 is produced under the guidance of Maison Barrière, with technical support from Château Beychevelle’s experienced winemaking team. This partnership ensures that the wine benefits from the château’s expertise and high standards. The collaboration allows for meticulous attention to detail in both vineyard management and winemaking practices, resulting in a wine that embodies the finesse and structure characteristic of Bordeaux appellation wines.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The grapes for this wine are sourced from vineyards in the Bordeaux appellation, located in the Left Bank of Bordeaux. The area benefits from a temperate maritime climate, with the nearby Gironde estuary moderating temperatures and reducing the risk of frost. The vineyards are planted on well-drained gravel soils, which are ideal for cultivating Sauvignon Blanc. These conditions contribute to the development of grapes with concentrated flavors and balanced acidity, essential for producing structured and age-worthy wines.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The winemaking process involves traditional Bordeaux techniques, including careful sorting of grapes, fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, and maceration to extract color and tannins. Following fermentation, the wine is aged in French oak barrels, a portion of which are new, for approximately 12 months. This aging process imparts subtle oak nuances and enhances the wine’s complexity and structure. The careful balance between fruit expression and oak influence results in a harmonious and refined final product.

Tasting Notes

The Grand Bateau Blanc 2020 exhibits a pale yellow color with green hues. On the nose, it offers aromas of green apple, gooseberry, citrus, and a small touch of vanilla. The palate is elegant and round, featuring ripe yellow fruit, good freshness, and a fruity, pleasant finish. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs excellently with seafood, fried fish, and goat cheese. Its structure and depth complement hearty dishes, including mushroom risotto and aged cheeses like Comté or Gruyère. For a classic Bordeaux pairing, serve it alongside duck confit or cassoulet. The wine’s balanced acidity and tannic backbone make it versatile enough to accompany a variety of rich, savory dishes.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate the nuances of this Bordeaux wine, serve it at a temperature of 10°C (50°F). No decanting is necessary; the wine is ready to enjoy upon opening. Use Bordeaux-style glasses to concentrate the aromas and enhance the tasting experience. This wine is suitable for both immediate enjoyment and special occasions, offering a refined expression of Left Bank Bordeaux.

Storage and Aging Potential

The Grand Bateau Blanc 2020 is crafted for both immediate enjoyment and medium-term aging. When stored in optimal conditions—cool, dark, and with consistent humidity—the wine can develop additional complexity over 2 to 3 years. Over time, the wine may develop tertiary aromas, enhancing its depth and character. Regular monitoring is advised to enjoy the wine at its peak maturity.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• Sauvignon Blanc: 100%

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

12.5%