Château Laville is owned by Jean-Christophe Barbe, a professor of oenology at the University of Bordeaux who specialises in noble rot. The estate's vineyards are planted on gravel soils with a bedrock of limestone, with the best plots used to make the Grand Vin. Several passes through the vineyard are required to ensure that only optimal botrytised berries are selected for fermentation.
Jean-Christophe and the team farm the vineyards following sustainable practices. These include using a herd of ‘landais’ sheep (an endangered local breed from the Landes Forest) that graze in the vineyards from November until March/April and provide natural fertiliser to enrich the soils. Their hooves also help aerate the soil, allowing for optimal absorption of oxygen and nutrients.
Château Laville is a blend of 90% Semillon and 10% Sauvignon Blanc, fermented in stainless-steel tanks and aged in new 400-litre oak barrels for 30 months. The final wine is defined by layers of complexity achieved through oak ageing while retaining freshness and a distinctive botrytis character. A frequent recipient of awards, including several golds and a DWWA Trophy, Château Laville is a fantastic example of classic, age-worthy Sauternes that is still decadent and delicious in its youth.