The Producer
The history of Château La Gaffelière dates back to the Gallo-Roman era, as evidenced by the remains and mosaics discovered on the estate. Its name originates from the "gaffets," the Gascon term for lepers who were welcomed in a leper hospital located nearby in the Middle Ages. Owned by the de Malet-Roquefort family for over three centuries, the estate is today one of the oldest family-owned properties still in operation in Saint-Émilion, embodying a remarkable historical continuity at the heart of the Bordeaux vineyard.
The vineyard extends over the southern hills of Saint-Émilion, in the prestigious "golden triangle" formed by the areas of Ausone and Pavie. Its terroir combines the clay-limestone plateau, the limestone slopes, and more siliceous hillside feet, offering a great diversity of expressions. This geological mosaic brings both depth, freshness, and elegance to the wines. The grape variety is largely dominated by merlot, complemented by cabernet franc, a grape variety particularly suited to the limestone soils of the estate and has become an essential component of its identity.
Today led by Alexandre de Malet Roquefort, Château La Gaffelière stands out as one of the major references of Saint-Émilion. The investments made in the vineyard and the winery have further refined the estate's style, seeking balance between power, finesse, and expression of the terroir. The wines are distinguished by their aromatic elegance, silky tannins, and remarkable aging potential, while maintaining a freshness that is the signature of the great limestone terroirs of Saint-Émilion.
The Wine
Tasting
Scores and Notes
98
Vinous
17/20
Jancis Robinson
91
James Suckling
16/20
La RVF