Nestled in the heart of France's renowned Pomerol appellation, lies the esteemed producer Chateau Le Bon Pasteur. For over four decades, this prestigious estate has been guided by the skilled hands of renowned wine consultant Michel Rolland, who has truly become the embodiment of the château's spirit. Born in 1947 and raised on the family property, Rolland's love for the land and passion for winemaking were instilled in him from a young age.
After completing his studies in agriculture and viticulture, Rolland went on to study oenology at the esteemed Faculty of Oenology in Bordeaux. It was during this time that he met his future wife, Dany, and together they embarked on a journey that would shape the future of Le Bon Pasteur. In 1973, the couple joined forces with the owners of a laboratory in nearby Libourne, marking the beginning of their successful partnership.
Following the death of his father in 1979, Rolland took over the management of the family estate while continuing his work at the laboratory. It was here that he honed his skills and developed the techniques that have made Le Bon Pasteur a household name in the wine world. From meticulously selecting the optimal grape maturity to utilizing state-of-the-art technology in the winemaking process, Rolland's commitment to quality and innovation has set Le Bon Pasteur apart from its peers.
Originally a single family estate, the advent of the Appellation Contrôlée system led to the division of the vineyards into three separate parcels. Today, Le Bon Pasteur produces three distinct wines - Le Bon Pasteur in Pomerol, Château Bertineau-St-Vincent in Lalande-de-Pomerol, and Château Rolland-Maillet in St-Emilion, all vinified in the original Le Bon Pasteur chai. The estate spans 6.7 hectares and is comprised of 21 plots, each playing a vital role in the unique style of Le Bon Pasteur - a perfect balance of Pomerol's softness and St-Emilion's power.
In 2013, Le Bon Pasteur was sold to Chinese investors, but Michel Rolland remains at the winemaking helm, ensuring that the legacy and traditions of this iconic château are carried on for generations to come. With its rich history, commitment to quality, and innovative approach to winemaking, Chateau Le Bon Pasteur continues to be a shining example of excellence in the world of French wines.
