Château Chasse-Spleen

Chasse-Spleen is one of the leading estates in Moulis-en-Médoc, and although doesn’t have an official classification (by choice), it “can be viewed as an honorary St-Julien for its smoothness” according to wine critic Jancis Robinson. Its name is tied to literary history, and there is some debate about whether it was Lord Byron or Baudelaire who helped bequeath its name. Either way, the historical estate has long held a reputation as one of the finest non-classed growths. It was founded after 1855, missing a place in Bordeaux classification system, but was awarded Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel. A title it refused, indicating its confidence in the quality and reputation of its wines. It was bought by the Taillan group, founded by the Merlaut family, in 1976, who also own Haut-Bages-Libéral, and is now run by granddaughter of the founder, Claire Villars. The estate also makes a white, Blanc de Chasse-Spleen.