Chateau Nenin

Château Nénin is recognized for producing structured, age-worthy Pomerol with a balance of power and freshness, thanks to its unique terroir and careful vineyard management. The estate’s evolution over the past two decades has turned it into a compelling choice for those seeking both tradition and modern precision in Bordeaux.

Château Nénin’s story begins in the 19th century, when the Despujol family took ownership and likely established the first vines on the property1. Their stewardship lasted until 1997, when the estate was acquired by the Delon family, already well-known for their work at Château Léoville Las Cases and Château Potensac. The purchase wasn’t just a business transaction; the families are related through marriage, making the transition a continuation of family tradition. After acquiring Nénin, the Delons invested in renovations and vineyard improvements, including a significant expansion in 1999 and a major renovation of the château itself in 2004.

The Vineyards
Today, Château Nénin covers 32 hectares, making it one of the largest properties in Pomerol. The vineyard is divided into 40 parcels, with vine ages averaging around 30 years, though some are much older. The best plots are located on the plateau, with slopes reaching up to 33 meters, stretching from the château almost to the vines of Château Trotanoy. The estate expanded in 1999 by acquiring four hectares from Château Certan Giraud, further consolidating its holdings.

Terroir
Nénin’s soils are a classic Pomerol mix: gravel, clay, sand, and iron-rich earth. The plateau parcels, with their higher clay content, are particularly prized and contribute to the depth and structure of the wine16. Most of the vineyard is planted in a single block, which is unusual for the region and helps create a consistent style across vintages.

Winemaking
Winemaking at Nénin is traditional, with fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats of varying sizes. The wines are aged for about 18 months, typically in 30% new French oak barrels or less, depending on the vintage16. In recent years, the estate has experimented with alternative vessels, including glass vats, large oak casks, and terracotta, aiming to further refine the wine’s balance and freshness6. Consultant Michel Rolland has worked with the estate, but Nénin’s wines tend to be more structured and masculine than the plush style often associated with his influence1. The use of press wine has historically been significant, sometimes up to 20% of the blend, though this has been moderated in recent vintages.

Three Notable Facts
• Architectural Distinction: Nénin features one of the few grand château buildings in Pomerol, with a 19th-century stone design that would not look out of place on the Left Bank.
• Family Continuity: The transition from Despujol to Delon was a family affair, reflecting deep roots and continuity in ownership.
• Recent Quality Leap: Since 2015, the estate has tightened grape selection and reduced yields, resulting in greater precision, elegance, and critical acclaim for the wines.