2022 Chateau Dassault Saint Emilion Grand Cru

Created in the mid-1800s by the Fourcaud family—best known for founding the legendary Chateau Cheval Blanc—this Saint-Émilion estate initially went by the name Chateau Couperie, a tribute to its address, 1 Couperie. But history took a new turn in 1955 when aviation magnate Marcel Dassault acquired the property. What began as a vineyard transformed under his careful stewardship into one of Bordeaux’s most respected names.

Marcel Dassault didn’t just update the vineyards—he redefined them. With precision inherited from his work in aviation, he modernized the estate’s infrastructure, upgraded its drainage system, and reimagined its winemaking approach. In true Bordeaux fashion, he renamed it Chateau Dassault, cementing his legacy and aligning the estate with the family’s reputation for excellence and innovation.

Fast forward to 2020, and the estate is flying high. The family still runs the show, backed by partnerships with Lafite Rothschild and Cheval Blanc. The Dassaults are minority partners in both Chateau Cheval Blanc and Chateau Lafite Rothschild, while also owning stakes in other legendary estates like Chateau L’Évangile and Chateau Rieussec. This web of Bordeaux royalty elevates their wines and strengthens their position in the market—one of exclusivity, heritage, and top-tier partnerships.

This isn’t cookie-cutter Saint-Émilion. The terroir includes old vines co-planted on sand, clay, and limestone. They even kept a 2-hectare parcel of ancient vines that delivers serious depth. Add in a team led by Laurene Brun, with Rolland still in the mix, plus Louis Mitjavile (yes, from Tertre Roteboeuf) lending his magic, and you’ve got a wine that punches well above its classification.

If you want to drink like an insider—this is it. If you want a taste of the old Bordeaux aristocracy with a modern attitude—this is it. If you want something that looks classic but drinks with energy and lift—this is most definitely it.

2022 was an extraordinary vintage for Bordeaux, it was blessed with a 97 pt review by Wine Spectator who said: "A beautiful vintage. Merlot berries were small and concentrated; Cabernet Franc also relished the conditions. Wines are very aromatic and sleek, with Pomerol and St.-Emilion excelling"