Château​ Ducru-Beaucaillou

Château Ducru-Beaucaillou, located in the Saint-Julien appellation of Bordeaux has a history dating back to the 13th century. The estate gained prominence in 1795 when Bertrand Ducru acquired it and appended his name to "Beaucaillou," referencing the "beautiful stones"—Gunzian gravel—that characterise its terroir. These gravel soils contribute to the vineyard's drainage and the quality of its wines. In 1855 the château was classified as a Second Growth (Deuxième Cru) in the Bordeaux Wine Official Classification.

In 1866 the estate was sold to Lucie-Caroline Dassier, wife of Bordeaux négociant Nathaniel Johnston. Johnston implemented significant viticultural advancements, including the development of the "Bordeaux mixture," a solution of copper sulfate and lime to combat vine diseases like mildew. The Johnston family retained ownership until the economic challenges of the Great Depression led to its sale in 1941 to Francis Borie, a member of a family with established roots in Bordeaux's wine trade.

Under the Borie family's stewardship, Château Ducru-Beaucaillou has continued to evolve. Since 2003 Bruno Borie has managed the estate, focusing on quality improvements and sustainable practices, including a transition to organic farming initiated in 2018. The estate produces three wines: the grand vin Château Ducru-Beaucaillou, La Croix Ducru-Beaucaillou, and Le Petit Ducru de Ducru-Beaucaillou. The vineyards, averaging 35 years in age, are planted predominantly with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, reflecting the estate's commitment to expressing the unique characteristics of its terroir.