Château de Rayne Vigneau

Identity

Château de Rayne Vigneau is a winegrowing estate located in the commune of Bommes, in Gironde. It is currently owned by the Trésor du Patrimoine group, headed by Derek Smith. Sébastien Olivar serves as managing director and Vincent Labergère as estate director. Guillaume Rateau is the cellar master, with Henri Boyer acting as consultant oenologist.

History and Philosophy

The history of Château de Rayne Vigneau dates back to the early 17th century, with buildings dating as far back as 1575. The estate takes its name from Gabrielle du Vigneau, the founder of the property. In 1834, Madame de Rayne, née Catherine de Pontac, acquired the property, marking a turning point for the estate. In 1855, Château de Rayne Vigneau was ranked Premier Grand Cru Classé de Sauternes. In 1867, it was distinguished as « Meilleur vin du monde ». After being owned by Crédit Agricole Grands Crus from 2005, the estate was acquired in 2015 by the Trésor du Patrimoine group.

Château de Rayne Vigneau is committed to an environmentally responsible approach, certified HVE niveau 3.

The Appellations

Château de Rayne Vigneau produces wines under the Sauternes appellation. It is classified as Premier Grand Cru Classé de Sauternes.

Practical Information

Château de Rayne Vigneau is located at 541 Route du Piquey, 33210 Bommes.

Telephone: +33 5 56 76 64 05

Email: reservation@raynevigneau.fr

The estate is open to visitors from April to November. Groups are accepted (from 5 to 100 people). Tastings are available for a fee. The estate features a boutique shop and on-site dining options. Direct sales at the estate and mail orders are available. Tours are conducted in French. Pets are not permitted.

Find Out More

Official estate website

The Vineyard (Terroir)

The vineyard of Château de Rayne Vigneau spans a planted area of 84 hectares. The soils are composed of grey clay over calcaire à astéries (starfish limestone), characterised by the presence of semi-precious stone deposits. The grape varieties are predominantly Sémillon (76%), complemented by Sauvignon Blanc (21%) and Sauvignon Gris (3%). The average vine age is 43 years. Harvesting is carried out entirely by hand.

Flagship Cuvées

The estate is primarily renowned for its Sauternes Premier Grand Cru Classé, often presented under the name Château de Rayne Vigneau or simply « Sauternes ». This sweet wine is crafted from a blend dominated by Sémillon, combined with Sauvignon Blanc. It is characterised by a smooth, unctuous palate and delivers a beautiful finish with notes of ripe apricot.

The estate also produces a second sweet wine, Madame de Rayne, as well as dry white wines. Among the dry white cuvées are « RV », « Bordeaux Grand Vin Blanc Sec », and « Le Sec de Rayne Vigneau ». The dry wines are predominantly made from Sauvignon Blanc.

Vinification and Ageing

Fermentation and ageing of the wines take place in French oak barrels. Ageing generally lasts between 18 and 24 months, with 30% new oak barrels.