Why it matters
The producer
Château Giscours is classified as one of the fourteen Troisièmes Crus, or Third Growths, in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification. Its range includes Château Giscours as the grand vin and La Sirène de Giscours as the second wine. In 1995, Eric Albada Jelgersma acquired a controlling stake in the wine growing business.
Place and vineyards
Where the wines begin
Labarde is near Margaux in Bordeaux. Château Giscours's vineyard rises over three peaks, with the highest reaching 32 meters. The ground is mostly gravel with sand and some limestone. Gravel and sand drain readily, while limestone can retain moisture, giving the vines contrasting conditions in the soil.
Wines to know
The range in view
Château Giscours is the grand vin, with approximately 25,000 cases produced annually. La Sirène de Giscours is the second wine, with typically 10,000 cases produced annually. The grand vin shows black fruit aromas, including blackberry and blackcurrant, with spicy notes and hints of liquorice. It is powerful and enchanting, with the capacity to age for years. La Sirène is made in a more approachable, fruitier and seductive style.