Discover Château La Rame in Sainte-Croix-du-Mont: family history, limestone terroir, precise, accessible, and authentic white, red, and sweet wines.
Located on the heights overlooking the Garonne River, Château La Rame is part of the most discreet but also one of the most interesting wine-growing areas in the Bordeaux region. Located in the heart of the Sainte-Croix-du-Mont appellation, just a few kilometers from Sauternes, the estate embodies a demanding and unpretentious approach to wine, based on family tradition, a detailed understanding of the soil, and a patient reading of the long term. Here, there is no flashy marketing rhetoric: the wines speak for themselves, carried by a unique terroir and a solidly rooted history.
An ancient estate shaped by several generations
The history of Château La Rame dates back to the 17th century. The name of the estate originates from an old French term meaning rock, in direct reference to the limestone soils rich in marine fossils, particularly petrified oysters, characteristic of this area of southern Entre-deux-Mers. This particular geology still forms the aromatic and structural backbone of the wines today.
In 1956, Claude Armand acquired the estate, which at the time consisted of around 20 hectares. Aware of the site’s wine-growing potential but also of the need for extensive restoration work, he undertook a complete restructuring of the vineyard: targeted replanting, improved drainage, and modernization of the cellars. His son Yves Armand continued this work over several decades, with a rigorous approach focused on precision rather than volume.
Today, the estate is run by the third generation: Grégoire and Angélique Armand, accompanied by Olivier Allo. Family continuity here is not simply a symbolic legacy: it is expressed in an intimate knowledge of each plot and in confident technical choices, often conservative in the noble sense of the term.
The terroir of Sainte-Croix-du-Mont, a discreet neighbor of Sauternes
Château La Rame benefits fully from the geographical characteristics of Sainte-Croix-du-Mont, an appellation that is still underestimated despite its potential being recognized by professionals. The vines grow on south-facing clay-limestone hillsides overlooking the Garonne valley. This orientation ensures optimal sunshine, promoting slow and regular ripening of the grapes.
The subsoil, composed of asteria limestone and marine fossils, plays a key role in water regulation. During dry periods, it gradually releases moisture, while in wetter seasons, it limits excess water. The vines, which are on average 50 years old, develop deep root systems, ensuring aromatic complexity and consistent quality.
The proximity of the Ciron, a tributary of the Garonne, creates a microclimate conducive to the development of noble rot (Botrytis cinerea), a fundamental element in the production of the appellation’s sweet wines.
A consistent range of grape varieties suited to the soil
The vineyard is mainly planted with Sémillon (75%), supplemented by Sauvignon Blanc (25%) for the whites. This choice is perfectly suited to the limestone soils and local climate. Sémillon brings richness, volume and aging potential, while Sauvignon provides tension and aromatic freshness.
For the reds, the plots are planted with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, on soils mixing clay, sand, and limestone, resulting in balanced, structured wines without excess.
A range of wines that are easy to understand and true to their origins
Dry white Bordeaux: precision and freshness
Made mainly from Sauvignon Blanc (95%), complemented by a touch of Sémillon, this wine comes from a 4-hectare plot facing south. The grapes are harvested by hand, followed by fermentation in temperature-controlled vats. Aging on fine lees for six months brings texture and complexity.
The wine is distinguished by its clear tension, notes of citrus, white flowers, and a chalky minerality. It appeals to both discerning amateurs and professionals looking for a clear and precise dry Bordeaux white.
Sainte-Croix-du-Mont, a classic sweet wine
This sweet wine is made exclusively from botrytized Sémillon. The grapes are harvested in successive stages, sometimes over several weeks, in order to select only those with perfect concentration. Slow fermentation, followed by two years of aging in vats, preserves the balance between richness and freshness.
The wine develops aromas of candied fruit, honey and dried apricot, with a structuring acidity that prevents any heaviness. Certain vintages, notably the Réserve du Château, have remarkable aging potential.
Reds: sobriety and balance
Bordeaux red, a blend of Merlot (60%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (40%), is vinified in stainless steel vats. It favors fruit, drinkability, and a supple structure. Bottled about one year after harvest, it offers an accessible profile without sacrificing structure.
The La Charmille cuvée, classified as Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux, goes even further in its ambition. Aged 12 to 14 months in French oak barrels, a third of which are new, it has a denser structure, aromas of ripe black fruits, and a measured integration of wood. The wine is designed to evolve favorably over 5 to 10 years.
Rosé, a direct and controlled approach
The most recent addition to the range, Bordeaux rosé is made by direct pressing of Cabernet Sauvignon (80%) and Merlot. Fermented at low temperatures, it emphasizes freshness, aromatic frankness, and a clean finish. It is designed for immediate enjoyment.
A reputation built on consistency
Château La Rame does not seek to follow trends. Its reputation is based on long-established consistent quality. At the end of the 19th century, the estate’s wines were distinguished at exhibitions in Bordeaux (1895) and Paris (1900). More recently, certain vintages have been compared to top-tier Sauternes, particularly for their value for money.
Prices remain deliberately modest: around €18 for the dry white, €20 for the red, and €25 for La Charmille. This policy reflects a clear desire to offer wines of character that remain in touch with their real market.
Tasting and aging recommendations
Dry whites and rosés are best enjoyed young, within 2 to 3 years of bottling. Reds gain complexity after 3 to 5 years in the cellar. Sweet wines, especially the most concentrated vintages, can evolve harmoniously over 10 to 15 years, developing refined tertiary notes.
A visit focused on understanding the place
Located about 40 kilometers southeast of Bordeaux, Château La Rame welcomes visitors by appointment. The tours focus on discussion and education: reading the soil, understanding botrytis, and guided tasting. The approach is deliberately understated, like the wines themselves: precise, sincere, without unnecessary embellishment.
Château La Rame is therefore aimed at those who are looking less for a setting and more for a well-balanced wine, deeply rooted in its landscape and history.
Cook in France is your independant source for food in France.
