Château Lafitte

Nestled at the foothills of the Pyrenees and recognised for its varied landscape and unique microclimates, the Sud-Ouest is one of France's oldest wine-growing regions. Yet it has taken a back seat compared to many other more renowned areas.

The oldest existing traces of Château Lafitte date back to the 14th century when this stately home surrounded by vineyards was already found between Pau and Oloron Sainte-Marie, in the heart of the Pyrenees. More than thirty years ago, Philippe and Brigitte Arraou decided to recover the estate in order to settle there and embark on a somewhat crazy project: that of becoming winemakers.

In 2012, it was the turn of their son Antoine to lead the resurgence and a new generation of winemakers. A former photographer, Antoine is deeply connected to the terroir and the particular grape varieties of Jurançon, namely Petit Manning and Gros Manseng. Embracing both tradition and innovation, Antoine is crafting wines that transcend appellation boundaries.

Having a strong ecological sensitivity, Antoine has since steered the estate toward organic and biodynamic practices (Demeter certified), planted fruit trees and cereals for biodiversity and implemented natural winemaking techniques. The wines are therefore without chemical inputs.

Antoine's wines are incredibly enchanting. They radiate tranquility and vibrancy setting them apart from the other wines from this much too mistreated appellation that is Jurançon.