Named for the pink heather that covered the slopes of this distinguished estate well before its famous vines replaced them, Château Montrose’s 234 acres have been called divinely blessed due to their natural assets. A result of millions of years in the making, its terroir boasts of naturally created outcrops which provide the level of natural drainage that makes viticulture a dream. Adding to the ideal exteriors, gravel mixed with sand rest atop a subsoil of clay in which natural reserves form, allowing the vines the perfect amounts of water for optimal, healthy development. Like many of its Médoc competitors, Montrose’s dominant grape is Cabernet Sauvignon, taking up 60% of the property. Additional parcels are dedicated to Merlot (32%), Cabernet Franc (6%), and Petit Verdot (2%), planted and harvested where the soil maximizes their unique attributes. The château’s Merlot is known for its aromatic features and silky tannins, while its Cabernet Franc is of particularly high-quality. Last, Montrose’s Petit Verdot contributes characteristic spice and pepper undertones to the château’s signature wines. These include the legendary Château Montrose; the equally noteworthy second label, La Dame de Montrose; and its third wine, Saint-Estèphe de Montrose, blended from younger vines and meant to be enjoyed after a short, twelve-month maturation period. Owned by only three families over two centuries, Château Montrose has been under the direction of Martin and Olivier Bouygues since 2006. The brothers undertook a major, seven-year reconstruction of the estate to help usher in 21st century production. While the project delivered extraordinary improvements, the exceptional beauty and natural excellence of the terroir was never compromised. On the contrary, the Bouygues’ respect for history can be found in every inch of this nothing-short-of-perfect location.