Château Clarke

Château Clarke Summary:

• Region/Appellation: Listrac-Médoc, southern Médoc, Bordeaux Left Bank (France)

• Viticulture History: Viticulture on site dates to the 12th century

• Founded: 1771 by the Clarke family

• Ownership: Acquired in 1973 by Baron Edmond de Rothschild; 50+ years of Rothschild investment and revitalization

• Vineyards: 135 acres

• Terroir: Limestone and clay soils

• Grape Focus: Merlot-led (rare in the Médoc, where Cabernet Sauvignon typically dominates)

• Vine Age: Approximately 30-year-old vines

• Sustainability & Certifications:

  • HVE Level 3 certified (High Environmental Value)

  • ISO 14001 certified (environmental management)

• Key Wines:

  • Château Clarke (Red) — 90+ point rating

  • Le Merle Blanc (White) — 90+ point rating

• Distinctive Offering: One of the few Médoc estates producing a white wine; Le Merle Blanc, first produced in 1890 and revived under Rothschild ownership

Founded in 1771, Château Clarke is a historic estate in Listrac-Médoc, located in the southern Médoc on Bordeaux’s Left Bank. With viticulture on the site dating back to the 12th century, the estate reflects centuries of winegrowing tradition.

A new chapter began in 1973 when the property was acquired by Baron Edmond de Rothschild. Over more than 50 years, the Rothschild family has invested extensively in vineyard restructuring and modern winemaking and storage facilities, positioning Château Clarke as a benchmark for the appellation.

The estate farms 135 acres of vineyards planted on limestone and clay soils, ideally suited to Merlot, which dominates the blends—an uncommon distinction in the Médoc. Vines averaging 30 years of age contribute to depth, balance, and consistency. The estate is certified HVE Level 3 and ISO 14001, underscoring its commitment to sustainable viticulture.

Château Clarke produces Merlot-driven Left Bank Bordeaux wines, including the red Château Clarke and the historic white Le Merle Blanc, first made in 1890 and revived under Rothschild ownership. Both wines have earned 90+ point ratings, reinforcing Château Clarke’s position as a high-quality, terroir-driven Médoc estate with enduring pedigree.