Château Fleur Haut Gaussens
Their Story
This family estate is a unique property that produces wines full of personality. The story begins in 1941 when Daniel and Catherine Lhuillier, Hervé Lhuillier’s paternal grandparents, settled at a place called Les Gaussens in Verac France, near Fronsac.
In 1976, Nicole and Pierre Lhuillier, the parents, planted their own estate with 8 hectares in Les Gaussens. In 1990, their son Hervé Lhuillier joined the estate after finishing his studies; with a head full of innovative ideas and a deep desire to create a strong brand, he started producing the first wines.
In 1996, Hervé took over the family business: Vignobles Pierre Lhuillier et Fils, and initiated a decisive turning point in the family estate. His wines balance tradition with modernism while expressing the essence of the land and vintage. Today, thanks to the self-awareness of its estate’s potential, a deep respect for the environment, and a desire to be ahead of the trend (whether it be a new modern tasting room, single variety Bordeaux wines, or packaging), Fleur Haut Gaussens has found its place among the best of the appellation.
Founded: 1941
Owner: Hervé Lhuillier
Winemaker: Hervé Lhuillier
Grape Varieties: Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc
Vineyard Location: Vérac, near Fronsac
Vineyard Size: 40 hectares clay-limestone
HOW WE MET
Fleur this was one of the heartbreaking stories in 2016. This was the last wine we approved for importation that year weeks before the company sold its assets and shut down its operation. One of the most compelling Bordeaux Supérieur wines I had tried in several years would no longer be imported and I was bummed. Obviously Bordeaux is an easy appellation to tell a story and there were other producers but THIS was the one I really wanted so it was quite exciting to have the opportunity to bring them back in to the US. The wines are shockingly age worthy for the price point and are always consistent vintage to vintage reminding us that Bordeaux is not all about the big names and price points.
Quick Facts on Bordeaux
HISTORY: Bordeaux was the center for wine exports from other regions, this made Bordeaux wines deeply appreciated across the world. In 1855 a major commercial exhibition took place that gave birth to the classification system that still holds sway today.
TODAY: Bordeaux continues to lead the world in fine wine production of Cabernet Sauvignon & Merlot among other varietals. The vinification, production & classification methods continue to inspire world winemaking.
TERROIR : In the southwest France, close to the Atlantic Ocean, it is crossed by the Garonne River and the Gironde. The region has a moderately maritime climate. The cool Atlantic Ocean lies just west of the vineyards and is a cooling influence. In the best years, gentle heat throughout the growing season, sufficient rainfall to promote growth and ripening, and fine, relatively dry and warm early autumns allow for steady and complete ripening. Such a climate can result in an excellent balance of tannins, sugar, and acidity, which partly explains the remarkable longevity of great vintages here.