Exclusive: Lawrence Wine Estates Acquires Bordeaux Second-Growth Chateau Lascombes

Napa Valley-based Lawrence Wine Estates has made its first European acquisition, agreeing to acquire Bordeaux second-growth Chateau Lascombes for an undisclosed sum. The move marks another significant step for the Lawrence family, whose rapidly growing portfolio also includes six estates across Napa—led by flagship Heitz Cellar—that have total production of about 75,000 cases. “This chateau has some of the greatest vineyards in Margaux and our family looks forward to caring for Chateau Lascombes for many generations to come,” said Gaylon Lawrence Jr.

The largest estate in the Margaux appellation, Lascombes’ vineyard spans 100 hectares (250 acres), with annual production of around 20,000 cases. “The U.S. is a key market for the chateau, but it will now become a much greater priority,” Lawrence Wine Estates managing partner Carlton McCoy Jr. told SND, adding that the company plans to preserve Lascombes’ current distribution partnerships through the Place de Bordeaux, and that he sees demand for Bordeaux wines continuing to grow in the U.S. market.

Insurance giant Mutuelle d’Assurance du Corps de Santé Français (MACSF) has owned Lascombes for the past 11 years after acquiring it for about $280 million in 2011, and will remain a minority partner. “Chateau Lascombes is a special place, and we will spare no expense to ensure that we bring it to its full potential,” said McCoy, who noted that Lawrence Wine Estates remains on the hunt for more potential purchases. “As we do in Napa, we are open to acquisitions of estates in regions that produce great wine,” he told SND. “That is our sole motivation.”—Daniel Marsteller

Tagged : Chateau Lascombes, Lawrence Wine Estates

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