Claire Villars Lurton

Claire Villars Lurton is a name that resonates with reverence and admiration in the world of Bordeaux wines. As the third generation of her family to take the helm at Château Haut-Bages Libéral, Claire has not only continued the legacy of her forebears but has also infused the estate with her unique vision and steadfast commitment to sustainability and biodynamic practices. Her journey, marked by both tradition and innovation, has propelled Château Haut-Bages Libéral to new heights, making it a beacon of excellence in the Pauillac appellation.

The turning point in Claire’s career came in the late 1990s, when her grandfather, Jacques Merlaut, entrusted her with the responsibility of leading the estate following the untimely demise of her mother, Bernadette. Jacques, a towering figure in the Bordeaux wine community, saw in Claire not just a successor but a visionary who could carry forward the family’s legacy. Under his guidance, Claire embarked on an immersive journey into the world of viticulture and winemaking, absorbing the rich traditions of Bordeaux while nurturing a vision for the future.

In 2000, Claire took a decisive step by dedicating herself fully to the estate, driven by a passion to unlock the full potential of its terroir. Recognizing the intrinsic value of the land and the importance of working in harmony with nature, she began exploring biodynamic farming and agroforestry techniques. This transition, initiated in 2007, marked a significant shift in the estate’s approach to viticulture, emphasizing the health of the vineyard ecosystem and the expression of the terroir in its wines.

Claire’s commitment to biodynamics is not merely a nod to winemaking trends but a deeply held belief in its principles. By treating the vineyard as a living organism and employing natural preparations and cosmic rhythms to guide farming practices, she has nurtured the vines to express the true essence of their environment. This holistic approach has resulted in wines that are not only a reflection of their place but also a testament to the benefits of sustainable agriculture.

In 2017, Claire undertook a comprehensive renovation of the winery and its historic buildings. This project was not just about aesthetics or functionality; it was a reaffirmation of the estate’s commitment to quality and its respect for heritage. The updated facilities have allowed for more precise and gentle handling of the wines, further enhancing their quality. Moreover, by revitalizing the estate’s architectural legacy, Claire has ensured that Château Haut-Bages Libéral stands proudly among its Pauillac peers, not just for its wines but also as a custodian of the region’s rich history.

Claire Villars Lurton’s leadership at Château Haut-Bages Libéral is a harmonious blend of respect for tradition and a forward-looking perspective. Her dedication to biodynamic practices and the careful stewardship of the estate’s terroir have not only elevated the quality of its wines but have also set a benchmark for sustainable viticulture in Bordeaux. Through her visionary approach, Claire has given a voice to the terroir of Château Haut-Bages Libéral, crafting wines that are authentic, expressive, and deeply rooted in their place of origin. As she continues to lead the estate into the future, Claire’s legacy is one of innovation, environmental stewardship, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.