Françoise and Stéphane Dief make high octane Médoc, working at the same caliber as those who tend the classified crus.

Their approach recalls the remarkable efforts undertaken in the 1970s by Jean Gautreau to elevate his Château Sociando-Mallet in Haut-Medoc to the ranks of the greats. The Dief built their domain over time, gradually acquiring parcels of vines in the region of Saint Christoly, particularly those located on gravel and those capable of high density plantings. The vines are meticulously maintained in order to produce low yields. The harvest is manual and the grapes are sorted and destemmed by hand. The recent overhaul of their chai showcases the Diefs’ insistence for functionality and hygiene, not to mention their talent for unostentatious design. Clos Manou is a selection of the best juice from one third of the property, and its élevage is done in new barrels. Petit Manou is not intended to be a second wine. Although aged in older barriques, it receives the same meticulous care as the Clos Manou. Many connoisseurs consider these two wines to be amongst the best values in Bordeaux. Cabernet sauvignon makes up roughly half of the vineyard’s 13 hectares, 40% is merlot, with petit verdot and cabernet franc making up the last 10%.