Château Pavie

Château Pavie is a historic wine estate defined by an approximately 42-hectare vineyard shaped like a natural amphitheater. Its origins trace to Roman-era cultivation, and the vines today average more than 40 years of age.

Following the 2022 classification, the estate incorporated the vineyards of Pavie-Decesse and Bellevue-Mondotte. This continuous slope offers broad sun exposure and diverse soils, contributing to layered expressions of its terroir. Guided by the Perse family and consultant winemaker Michel Rolland, the cellar approach has evolved toward greater precision, reducing new oak use to emphasize freshness while maintaining the estate's legendary depth.

The estate produces a red Bordeaux blend as its grand vin, while its second wine, Arômes de Pavie, is crafted from lots not selected for the main cuvée, often from younger vines.

Geology, vine age, and stylistic choices work together to shape Pavie’s identity and the character found across its wines.

Château Pavie's allure is rooted in its commitment to excellence and its storied heritage, establishing it as a standout in the wine world.

• Unwavering quality focus — The Perse family's leadership, including massive investments in a state-of-the-art winery, has propelled Pavie to the top of Saint-Émilion wines.
• Exclusive production — With production of the grand vin varying by vintage (historically around 6,500 cases, though now slightly higher with the vineyard expansion), the limited availability heightens its desirability among collectors.
• Distinctive style — Known for its bold, fruit-forward profiles, Pavie captivates enthusiasts with its richly layered expressions that have recently evolved toward more elegance and finesse.

• Where is Château Pavie located?

  On Bordeaux’s Right Bank in the Saint-Émilion appellation.

• What classification does Château Pavie hold?

  Premier Grand Cru Classé A. The estate was promoted to this status in 2012 and reconfirmed in the 2022 classification.

• When was the modern estate founded, and by whom?

  1885, established by Ferdinand Bouffard. The site’s viticultural history, however, dates back to Roman times.

• Who is responsible for the modern transformation of Château Pavie?

  Gérard Perse, who acquired the estate in 1998. Today, the estate is managed by the Perse family, including Henrique Da Costa.

• Who is the consulting winemaker?

  Michel Rolland.

• What is the main grape variety and house style?

  Merlot is predominant (about 50-60% of the vineyard). The grand vin is a robust Bordeaux blend; the style has evolved recently to use roughly 75% new oak (down from 100%) for more precision and freshness.

• How large is the vineyard and what’s unique about its terroir?

  Approximately 42 hectares (expanded in 2022) in a contiguous, amphitheater-shaped slope with diverse soils and broad sun exposure. Vines average over 40 years of age.

• How much wine is produced annually?

  Historically about 6,500 cases of the grand vin, though this has increased slightly following the 2022 vineyard expansion.

• Does Château Pavie produce a second wine?

  Yes. Arômes de Pavie, made from lots not selected for the grand vin, often from younger vines.

• What is the origin of the name “Pavie”?

  It refers to a type of peach (pêche de pavie); peach trees once grew on parts of the estate.