Chateau Pavie Decesse

Chateau Pavie Decesse is a Saint Emilion Grand Cru hailing from Bordeaux's Right Bank. Gerard Perse's 1997 acquisition marked a new turning point for the estate, which has seen multiple 95+ point scores for its rich and delicate Merlot-driven wines. Pavie Decesse consistently earns similar scores as its neighbors, Chateau Pavie and Chateau Pavie Macquin, yet sells at a fraction of the cost, making it one of the best Bordeaux values on the market today.

Chateau Pavie Decesse: 4th Century Roman History

Select vines on the property of Chateau Pavie Decesse date back to the 4th century, when Roman vintners first discovered the land's propensity for winemaking. However, the chateau's modern history begins in the second half of the 19th century, after Ferdinand Bouffard purchased the chateau and all surrounding estates. Consequently, Chateau Pavie Decesse and Chateau Pavie were part of a larger conglomerate, approximately 50 hectares large. Then, in 1885, Monsieur Adolphe Pigasse acquired 10 hectares of the estate and named it Chateau Pavie Decesse.

Ownership switched hands numerous times until the First World War, when Albert Porte became the new proprietor. Financial difficulties following the Second World War forced Porte to sell the estate to Alexandre Valette, who then appointed M. Marzelle to lead operations. Pavie Decesse was classified as a Grand Cru Classe chateau in the Saint Emilion classification under Marzelle, who restructured the vineyard. Marzelle later passed away in 1971, leaving the Valette's firmly in charge until Gerard Perse's 1997 acquisition. The business mogul turned winemaker acquired Chateau Pavie a year later, constituting a contiguous group of vines.

Chateau Pavie Decesse Saint Emilion Terroir

At the time of Perse's purchase, Pavie Decesse held 10 hectares, however 6 hectares were later transferred to Chateau Pavie, leaving the estate with 3.65 hectares under vine. The chateau is entirely set on limestone and planted to 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. The average vine age is 43 years and set at a density of 7,000 vines per hectare. 

The density allows the Merlot, colloquially known as the "king of St. Emilion," to develop a complex nose of red berries, black fruits and spice. Conversely, the Cabernet Franc is planted on a block containing sandy clay subsoils, which provides excellent drainage and results in rich and powerful fruit that provide the backbone of the final cuvée.

Pavie Decesse: Wine Portfolio

Pavie Decesse wines are known for their complexity, tannic structure, and ageing potential. Each blend is distinct for floral and mineral notes, and fleshy and rich profile. Some of the estate's greatest releases include the 1998 and 2009 vintages, which were rated 96 and 98 points, respectively, by Robert Parker.

Pavie Decesse 2009

The 2009 Chateau Pavie Decesse only saw 1,000 cases produced, making the bottles an instant collector's gem on the open market. Bottles were celebrated for their signature, opulent St. Emilion style and incredible aging ability. Many critics believe the bottles can last for up to three decades in the cellar, and at under $250 per bottle, represent one of today's greatest Right Bank values.

Pavie Decesse 1998

The 1998 Chateau Pavie Decesse was Gerard Perse' first vintage in charge and was noted as a vast improvement on the estate's previous releases. In her review for The Wine Advocate, Lisa Perrotti Brown stated the bottles have an expected aging ability of up to four decades, an impeccable feature for a Right Bank Bordeaux blend.

Secure Your Bottle of Chateau Pavie Decesse

Chateau Pavie Decesse is a hidden gem in St. Emilion, carrying the same prestige as the Premier Grand Cru giant, Chateau Pavie. Bottles are sold at a fraction of the price of its neighbor, yet provide similar value, making Pavie Decesse the perfect cellar acquisition for discerning buyers. Browse our in-stock selection of Chateau Pavie Decesse today.