The Terroir
Grown on the hillsides of the valley of the Isle where the vines have existed for more than 500 years, the vineyard of Château Grand Français is located in the northern part of Saint Émilion.
The sandy-silty soil on red gravel gives the wine a natural richness. Facing to the south, the vines enjoy perfect exposure. Thus Grand Français has all the markings of a typical Libournais vineyard, a gift of nature in the service of a traditional know-how passed down from generation to generation. With an area of eight hectares in a single location, the vineyard is planted at a density of 5000 vines per hectare.
Grape varieties
The grape varieties found at Grand Français are Cabernet Sauvignon (30%), Cabernet Franc (25%) and Black Merlot (45%). We practice a short pruning in double guyots in order to obtain a homogeneous fruit distribution.
Manual leaf pruning allows the grapes to take advantage of the sun's rays and brings a natural aeration through the rows, which helps with the prevention of parasites.
Cabernet Sauvignon is a grape variety that brings colour and longevity in the mouth. This variety gives Grand Français a good potential for keeping.
Cabernet Franc is a more delicate grape variety, with the advantage of bringing a sweet and fruity character.
Merlot is well known for its properties of colour and notes of red fruits, for its roundness, fruitiness and longevity in the mouth.
