Château Mille-Secousses
シャトー・ミル・スクース
A 17th-century Right Bank estate bearing a royal legend, crafting approachable Merlot-driven Côtes de Bourg with genuine historic character.
Château Mille-Secousses is one of Côtes de Bourg's most historically resonant estates, originally built in 1636 for Jean de Ridder, a Dutch wine merchant. Its evocative name — meaning 'a thousand shakes' — traces back to a visit by the young Louis XIV, whose entourage endured the notoriously rough roads leading to the château and quipped they had been 'shaken a thousand times.' Owned by the Darricarrère family since the mid-20th century, the estate sits on 42 hectares of vineyards overlooking the Gironde estuary, benefiting from a temperate estuarine microclimate. The vineyards are planted predominantly with Merlot (70%), complemented by Cabernet-Sauvignon (25%) and Cabernet Franc (5%), and the wines are aged for 18 months in vats and seasoned barrels before bottling at the château.
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Who Is This For?
Ideal for Bordeaux lovers seeking an authentic, story-rich Right Bank estate outside the main appellations, and those who appreciate well-priced, food-friendly reds with genuine terroir character.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the origin of the name 'Mille-Secousses'?
- The name dates to the 17th century, when the young Louis XIV visited the estate. His entourage complained that the rough, unpaved road leading to the château had shaken them 'a thousand times' (mille secousses), and the nickname stuck.
- What grape varieties are grown at Château Mille-Secousses?
- The estate is planted with 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet-Sauvignon, and 5% Cabernet Franc. This Right Bank-leaning blend delivers a wine with round tannins, ripe red fruit, and a fresh, elegant finish.
- How are the wines aged and when are they ready to drink?
- Wines are aged for 18 months in vats and seasoned (non-new) barrels, then bottled at the château. They are approachable upon release and typically drink best between 3 and 8 years from the vintage.
- What foods pair well with Château Mille-Secousses wines?
- The Merlot-dominant style partners naturally with roasted or grilled red meats — duck breast, entrecôte, or lamb chops — as well as hearty stews, aged cheeses, and classic regional dishes such as lamprey à la bordelaise.
- What is the history of the Darricarrère family at the estate?
- The Darricarrère family settled at Château Mille-Secousses in the second half of the 20th century, having returned from Algeria. They built the estate over decades with a dedicated team. In 2010 they sold 40 hectares to outside investors but retained 42 hectares and continue to produce wine under the Mille-Secousses label.