Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

Citran Castle is an emblematic wine estate of the Haut-Médoc, located in Avensan, near Margaux. Its history dates back to the 13th century with a strong castle, then became the seigneury of the Marquis of Donnissan. The present castle, built between 1861 and 1864 by architect Pierre-Charles Brun, replaces the former medieval fortress surrounded by moat. This estate, which covers 410 hectares, 90 of which are dedicated to the vine, is a typical example of 19th century wine architecture.

In 1832, the estate was acquired by the Clauzel family, which sold it in 1922. After World War II, the Miailhe family revived the vineyard, then in decline. In 1986, the castle was sold to the Japanese company Touko, before being bought in 1997 by the Taillan group, led by Jacques Merlaut. The latter, owner of several Bordeaux wines, modernises the estate while preserving its historical heritage.

Citran Castle is classified bourgeois in 2010 and produces a second wine, Les Moulins de Citran. The entire estate, including the castle, the agricultural buildings, the park and its elements (gates, bridges, dovecote), has been listed as historical monuments since 2012. Its architecture, marked by side pavilions and a slate roof, is integrated into the network of irrigation channels typical of the Médoc.

Today, the estate is administered by Denis Merlaut and remains a major player in Bordeaux winemaking. Its history reflects the economic and cultural developments of the region, from medieval times to the globalization of wine in the 20th century.

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