Château Lafleur exits Pomerol to embrace Vin de France

One of Bordeaux’s most prestigious estates, Château Lafleur, has stunned the wine world by announcing its departure from the Pomerol appellation. From the 2025 vintage, Lafleur will be labelled Vin de France, breaking nearly 90 years of tradition.

At around £650 a bottle, Lafleur is among the most prized wines of Bordeaux, sitting beside Petrus in both price and prestige. The Guinaudeau family, owners of the estate, said their decision was driven by Pomerol’s restrictions on irrigation, a practice they believe is essential in adapting to hotter, drier summers. Social media lit up when the news broke, forcing the family to issue a detailed statement explaining their stance.

Their move has opened debate across Bordeaux, with leading neighbours including Christian Moueix of Petrus acknowledging the urgent need to address irrigation rules. For many, Lafleur’s bold step signals a growing clash between tradition and climate change realities.