Château de Rolland
シャトー・ド・ロラン
One of Barsac's oldest properties since 1492, producing classic botrytized sweet wines from a 15th-century estate under three-generation Guignard family stewardship.
Château de Rolland is one of the oldest estates in the Barsac appellation, with origins stretching back to 1492 when the de Rolland family first acquired the domain. After passing through six different families between 1797 and 1971, the 18-hectare property has been in the hands of the Guignard family for over four decades, now guided by siblings François, Lucie, and Monique Guignard. The estate surrounds a majestic 15th-century dovecote and benefits from Barsac's exceptional microclimate — positioned close to the Ciron River, where cool waters meeting warm air generate the morning mists that trigger the development of Botrytis cinerea. The Guignards follow a rigorous traditional approach: multiple selective harvesting passes to pick only perfectly noble-rotted grapes, followed by strict vinification and aging in barrel to shape the estate's signature Barsac-Sauternes style. In addition to their flagship sweet white wine, the estate also produces dry white, red, and rosé wines from its Graves parcels, making it one of the most versatile producers in the southern Gironde.
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Who Is This For?
Ideal for admirers of traditional Barsac-Sauternes who appreciate historical estates, and for those who enjoy pairing botrytized wine with a range of dishes from foie gras to blue cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between Barsac and Sauternes wines?
- Barsac is a sub-appellation located within the broader Sauternes zone, sharing the same soil and microclimate conditions. Producers can label their wine as either 'Barsac' or 'Sauternes.' Barsac wines are often described as slightly lighter and more elegant than Sauternes, with a comparable level of botrytized complexity.
- How old is Château de Rolland?
- The property dates back to at least 1492, when the de Rolland family first acquired it, making it one of the oldest in the Barsac appellation. Its 15th-century dovecote still stands as a testament to this long history.
- Who currently runs Château de Rolland?
- The estate is currently managed by François, Lucie, and Monique Guignard, whose family has owned the property since 1971. Jean Guignard, their father, transmitted his winemaking knowledge to all three children.
- What types of wines does Château de Rolland produce?
- The estate's flagship is its sweet Barsac-Sauternes white wine, made from botrytized Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc. In addition, the estate produces dry white, red, and rosé wines from its Graves parcels, offering a broad range of styles.
- What food pairings work best with Château de Rolland Barsac?
- The sweet Barsac pairs classically with foie gras, blue cheeses like Roquefort, fruit tarts, and creamy desserts. It also works surprisingly well with spicy cuisine, where the residual sweetness tempers the heat. A chilled glass makes an elegant aperitif on its own.