The Past, Present and Future

We're obliged to respect and protect not only the land but our heritage as well, says Philippe Blanc of storied classified growth Château Beychevelle.

- LAUREN TAN

Everyone loves a good story - and Château Beychevelle has a good one to tell.

A wine producer since the Middle Ages, Beychevelle took on its current name, which means baisse voile (lower the sails), after being acquired by the first Duke of Epernon through marriage in the early 17th century. As a GrandAdmiral of France and a confidante of King Henry III, all ships lowered their sails as a sign of respect when passing the estate.

A patron of the arts, the second Duke of Epernon added to the legend of Beychevelle by inviting actors such as the young Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, otherwise known as Molière, to stay and perform at the château.

Sold a myriad of times over the years, Bordeaux's most impressive property it's not called the Versailles of the Médoc for nothing is now owned by Grands Millésimes de France, a subsidiary of the Castel and Suntory groups, both massive players in today's international wine and spirits market.