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CHÂTEAU BESSAN SÉGUR

Château Bessan Ségur is located in the renowned Médoc appellation of Bordeaux. With a long and storied history dating back to the 15th century, it has stood as a witness to Bordeaux wine culture for centuries. Through the region’s rises and triumphs, the estate has remained a shining jewel of the Médoc.

In 1740, Château Bessan Ségur became the property of the eminent Bordeaux nobleman Joseph de Ségur. The Ségur family owned vast lands in Bordeaux and, in the 18th century, was known as the “Prince des Vignes” (Prince of the Vines).

Joseph de Ségur was famed for his fortune and was said to have been described by King Louis XV as “a lord whose lands produce both nectar and diamonds.” Under his stewardship, the château gradually became one of the Ségur family’s main residences.

Another prominent figure, Nicolas-Alexandre de Ségur, was celebrated as the “Prince of the Vines.” He once owned legendary estates including Lafite, Latour, Mouton, and Calon-Ségur.

The Rise of the Saint-Cyr Mortier Family and Their Wartime Hardships

In 1888, the estate was acquired by the Saint-Cyr Mortier family, who worked to improve vineyard management and winemaking practices. During World War I, however, Château Bessan Ségur—like many Bordeaux estates—fell into hardship. Labor shortages and economic downturn forced many vineyards to reduce production or even halt operations, placing great pressure on the family’s management.

The Wertheimer Family, a Legendary Racehorse, and Chanel

In 1920, the Wertheimer family from Alsace took over Château Bessan Ségur. Today, the family is known as the owner of Chanel and one of France’s most influential luxury dynasties. After acquiring the estate, they did not focus on wine production. Instead, Pierre Wertheimer—an avid horse-racing enthusiast—transformed the property into a stud farm for racehorses.

The Wertheimer Family, a Legendary Racehorse, and Chanel

In 1922, the legendary racehorse Epinard was born at the château and quickly rose to fame in French racing. It won nearly all major races in France that year and became a celebrated star. To mark its victories, Pierre hosted a grand dinner attended by many racing enthusiasts—including the iconic designer Coco Chanel. The two hit it off, beginning a business partnership around Chanel fragrances.

The Wertheimer Family, a Legendary Racehorse, and Chanel

In 1924, Wertheimer, Théophile Bader (founder of Galeries Lafayette), and Coco Chanel co-founded the Chanel perfume company. In an unexpected way, Château Bessan Ségur and the horse Epinard helped spark this historic partnership. In 1932, the estate was selected among the first Médoc “Cru Bourgeois”—a distinction it has maintained to this day.

The Rise of the Lacombe Family and the Rebirth of the Estate

During World War II, the estate paused its progress. In 1948, the Wertheimer family sold part of its Médoc holdings, and Château Bessan Ségur was taken over by the experienced Lacombe family. They quickly restored viticulture and winemaking, launched a systematic renovation and rebuilding program, and renewed the expression of the terroir. Quality improved markedly, earning the château renewed recognition within Bordeaux.

A Modern Legacy

Today, Château Bessan Ségur spans 130 hectares of vineyards, planted with four classic Bordeaux varieties: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. The estate also encompasses several renowned labels—including Château Les Mourlanes, Château Haut Canteloup, Château La Grange de Bessan, Château Tour Saint-Vincent, and Château Bessan Ségur—each holding a place within the Bordeaux Cru Bourgeois ranking.

Terroir

Located in the Médoc, the estate benefits from a mild maritime climate moderated by the nearby estuary—making it easier to balance ripeness with freshness. The limestone soils bring tension and minerality, enhancing the wine’s elegance and finesse.

Wine Collection

Château Bessan Ségur Wines