The Estate
In 1952, Hervé Duboscq acquired a few hectares in the heart of the Saint-Estèphe appellation. With a bold vision and a deep passion for wine, he transformed this discreet estate into a major name on Bordeaux's Left Bank. His son, Henri Duboscq, joined him in 1962 and brought a decisive influence to the estate's style, turning Haut-Marbuzet into a distinctive and respected figure in the Médoc. Together, they built a reputation that rivals some classified growths.
The vineyard of Château Haut-Marbuzet spans 75 hectares, ideally located on a gravelly rise overlooking the Gironde estuary. The soil consists of Günzian gravel with a clay-limestone subsoil, offering excellent drainage and optimal grape ripening. This privileged location, nestled between two Médoc giants—Cos d'Estournel and Montrose—provides ideal conditions for cultivating the region's typical grape varieties, with a notably high proportion of Merlot.
Haut-Marbuzet stands out with an atypical blend for Saint-Estèphe: around 40% Merlot, 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 10% Cabernet Franc. The estate favors suppleness and elegance, with vinification aimed at roundness and generous ageing in new oak barrels. This sensual and charming signature style earned it the title of Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel in 2003. Still managed by Henri Duboscq, now supported by his sons, the château remains true to its identity, producing wines with strong character, regularly praised by critics.
The Wine
Average age of the vines: About 30 to 40 years
Viticulture
- Traditional soil cultivation
- Bud pruning, manual leaf removal
- Manual harvesting with parcel selection
- Grapes harvested at optimal ripeness
Fermentation: In temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks
Fermentation temperature: 28 to 30°C
Maceration: 3 to 4 weeks depending on the vintage
Pressing: Pneumatic, separation of press juices
Aging:
- 100% in new French oak barrels
- Duration: 18 to 24 months depending on the vintage
- Regular racking
Tasting
The Château Haut-Marbuzet reveals an intense nose blending ripe black fruits, sweet spices, and elegant woody notes. On the palate, the attack is round and velvety, with soft tannins and a beautiful concentration. The finish is long, harmonious, marked by a slightly vanilla touch and an aftertaste of black fruits.
