Château Chauvin

Château Chauvin's story begins in 1838, when the property was sold under the name Château Figeac-Chauvin, reflecting its early connection to the broader Figeac estate network on Saint-Émilion's western plateau. By 1852, a formal division of the Corbin estate gave rise to the property in its current form. The estate earned its Grand Cru Classé status in the foundational 1954 classification, which took official effect in 1955, cementing Chauvin's place among Saint-Émilion's recognized crus. In 2014, the Cazes-Régimbeau family took ownership, bringing fresh investment and management under the direction of Sylvie Cazes, Philippe Moureau, and Jérémie Gravier.

• Sold as Château Figeac-Chauvin in 1838, linking it to the historic Figeac estate network
• Current estate configuration dates to an 1852 division of the Corbin property
• Grand Cru Classé classification awarded in 1954, effective 1955
• Cazes-Régimbeau family ownership began in 2014

The 15-hectare vineyard sits on the northwest slope of Saint-Émilion, a position that shapes both drainage patterns and microclimate. The soils are sandy-clay in texture with a particularly notable iron-rich subsoil composed of iron dross and pseudogley. This iron-laden substrate is characteristic of the western and northwestern parts of Saint-Émilion, where it contributes structure and a distinctive mineral quality to the wines. The estate operates within Saint-Émilion's temperate maritime climate, moderated by Atlantic Ocean influence that tempers summer heat and softens seasonal extremes.

• Northwest slope position within Saint-Émilion appellation
• Sandy-clay topsoil over iron dross and pseudogley subsoil
• Iron-rich subsoil is a defining feature of this part of Saint-Émilion's terroir
• Temperate maritime climate moderated by Atlantic Ocean proximity

Château Chauvin follows the classic Saint-Émilion model with Merlot as the dominant variety, accounting for 66 to 75 percent of the blend. Cabernet Franc contributes 20 to 30 percent, adding aromatic lift and structural backbone, while Cabernet Sauvignon plays a minor supporting role at 4 to 8 percent. This blend composition suits the sandy-clay soils well; Merlot thrives in these conditions and delivers the estate's signature softness and approachability. The result is a wine described as elegant, balanced, and feminine, with medium to full body and sophisticated character.

• Merlot 66-75%, Cabernet Franc 20-30%, Cabernet Sauvignon 4-8%
• Blend composition aligns with the northwest Saint-Émilion style
• Merlot dominance suits the sandy-clay soils of the estate
• Wine style is consistently described as elegant, balanced, and feminine

Château Chauvin holds the Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé designation, the mid-tier of Saint-Émilion's classification system, sitting below the Premiers Grands Crus Classés but above the broader Grand Cru category. This classification has been in place since the first formal Saint-Émilion classification of 1954, which took effect in 1955. Unlike the Médoc classification, Saint-Émilion's system is subject to periodic revision, meaning estates must continue to demonstrate quality and meet regulatory criteria to retain their status. Château Chauvin has maintained its classified standing across multiple revision cycles.