As one of the oldest properties in Pomerol, La Conseillante has been managed by the Nicolas family since 1871. The vineyard boundaries have stayed the same over the years, and the label design has remained unchanged since its introduction in the 19th century. It is a symbol of timeless elegance, featuring a silver frame, the iconic 'N' for Nicolas at its center, and a violet-colored capsule. The design retains its charm and modern appeal even in the 21st century.
The vineyard itself spans 12 hectares, primarily contained within a single block of vines that straddles the border from Pomerol to St Emilion. It consists of 16 vineyard plots, the oldest planted in 1958, with two types of soil: grey clay to the east and sandy gravel to the west. The vineyard composition is 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. The Cabernet Franc, grown on stony gravel, imparts minerality, freshness, and spices, while the Merlot, cultivated on gravel and clay soils, offers finesse and power.
Since 1970, two branches of the Nicolas family have managed La Conseillante. To refine their approach to winemaking, they brought on Jean-Michel Laporte in 2001, who became the director in 2004. Laporte's blend of traditional methods and meticulous adjustments has elevated the quality and the consistency of the wines. Each vintage's blend and winemaking process vary slightly, with Merlot taking precedence over Cabernet Franc. In its youth, La Conseillante boasts magnificent aromas of violets and red berries, displaying remarkable finesse and balance. With age, the wine reveals superb truffle notes, minerally dark fruit tones, and a structure reminiscent of Medoc wines. Renowned for its extreme finesse and soft texture, La Conseillante is celebrated as one of Pomerol's most harmonious and refined wines.
Today, the estate is expertly managed by the 5th generation of the Nicolas family, Jean Valmy Nicolas, who also holds the position of Co-General Manager at Chateau Figeac, alongside Bertrand Nicolas. With the addition of Managing Director Marielle Cazaux in 2015, they have continued to maintain La Conseillante's esteemed reputation by offering exceptional wines to enthusiasts globally.