Harvest at Château Papounan
It was just before 8 a.m. when we began our third harvest at Château Papounan. The morning was cool, but we knew the sun would soon warm things up. The timing was perfect – one week after the Médoc Wine Marathon, The perfect weekend to harvest our grapes.
The 2025 vintage should be very good!
This year, all the local winemakers are saying the same thing: the quality will be exceptional. The quantity may be lower, but the concentration of the grapes is remarkable.
The season was almost perfect from a meteorological point of view. A relatively dry spring and summer spared us the usual diseases – very little mildew, practically none of the complications we normally fear. On the other hand, the lack of rain in July and early August kept the grape bunches quite small, which concentrates the aromas.
Fortunately, there was good rain at the end of August and the beginning of September, just enough to give the grapes a little volume without diluting their beautiful concentration. When we cut the bunches that morning, we could immediately see the quality: magnificent grapes, perfect bloom, ideal ripeness.
The old saying goes that years ending in 5 always produce great vintages in the Médoc. 2005, 2015, and now 2025. Coincidence or not, seeing our grapes this year, we want to believe it.
The grape harvest is so much better with friends
This year, we were not alone. Our friends Marc and Réjane, recently settled on the right bank after having lived in a multitude of countries (we met them in the United States), crossed the Gironde to give us a hand.
And what a difference! Last year, it was just the two of us for 10 hours – we were exhausted. This year, with four of us, we finished in 5 hours in a great atmosphere. Amarok, Our Alaskan malamute, was supervising us as usual, making his rounds between the rows.
A well-organized day
This year we invested in new transport crates – proper red and grey harvest crates that really make the work easier. Our small 0.2-hectare plot is planted half Merlot, half Cabernet Sauvignon, the classic Saint-Étienne blend.
Around mid-morning, we took a break for a proper breakfast: homemade jam, fresh bread, and croissants. It's important to take your time, even during the grape harvest.
By early afternoon, it was all over. A little over 320 kg of grapes ready to go to the cooperative. It's not a huge amount – all the local winemakers are reporting lower yields this year – but it's more than enough for us. These grapes will become part of the Marquis of Saint-Estèphe, the wine from the cooperative.
After the effort, the reward
After work, it's time to party! We fired up the barbecue, but not with ordinary charcoal – with vine cuttings. These vine branches burn incredibly hot and give the meat an incomparable flavor. On the menu: a huge T-bone steak from... Pigoud by Dylan, the local butcher of Saint-Estèphe.
And to thank Marc and Réjane? We opened a bottle of Pagodes de Cos, the second wine of the Château Cos d'Estournel. This is one of our favorites, and this was the perfect opportunity.
There's something special about sharing a meal after working together in the vineyards. The conversations are different, the wine tastes even better, and the memories created are authentic. Réjane took lots of photos and even a short video—moments of simple joy that can't be staged.
In 2026?
It's difficult to predict the exact date – it depends on the weather, the sugar levels, and many other factors that change every year. But with climate change, the grape harvest is happening earlier and earlier. The weekend after the Médoc Wine Marathon is usually the right time. For very small producers like us, it's always a Saturday.
Evaluations
We had an incredible stay at Château Papounon while running the Médoc Marathon. From the moment we arrived, Jacques and Sylvaine made us feel completely at home — like we were visiting old friends rather than staying at a guesthouse.The room was beautiful and super comfortable, breakfast was absolutely delicious every morning, and their dogs were just the best. One of the highlights was how they introduced us to a fantastic local artisan winemaker and even arranged a tour. They also pointed us to some great restaurants nearby — every recommendation was spot on.It was the perfect place to relax and recharge after the race. We’d come back in a heartbeat!
De passage dans le Médoc, nous avons séjourné trois nuits au Château Papounan. Nous y avons passé un excellent moment grâce à Sylvaine et Jacques. Nous logions dans le studio Les Vignes, très bien aménagé avec goût, doté d’une literie de qualité et d’une propreté irréprochable. Les petits-déjeuners proposés étaient délicieux. Nous remercions chaleureusement nos hôtes pour leur accueil, pour les échanges très enrichissants que nous avons pu avoir avec eux, ainsi que pour leurs précieux conseils et recommandations de châteaux et de visites dans la région.Axelle et Dorian
A Truly Unforgettable Stay – 5 Stars Aren’t Enough!Like so many others before me have mentioned, Jacques and Sylvaine are the heart and soul of this incredible experience. They went above and beyond to make our stay truly memorable - in fact 5-star hotels could learn a lot from this amazing couple about creating the perfect guest experience.Their attention to detail was impeccable, and it was clear they had thought of everything to ensure our comfort. From hosting us for wine to the warm, personal touches throughout, every moment felt special.The room was modern, in excellent condition, and beautifully maintained. And the breakfast? Sublime! We noticed other guests were just as sad as we were when leaving, knowing it would be hard to find this level of service anywhere else.If you’re considering staying here, don’t hesitate. You won’t regret it!
Nous avons été logés au château Papounan pour un week-end entre amis.Nous pensions réserver un lieu simplement pour dormir, nous avons finalement passé un excellent moment sur le domaine, avec un couple de gérants adorables et très accessibles, pour de très bons moments partagés.Entre la qualité des chambres et du domaine, les petits -déjeuners copieux, les moments d'échanges, les conseils sur les activités (voir parfois les appels en direct pour certaines activités !), nous avons été ravis de notre voyage, du début à la fin.Un grand merci Sylvaine et Jacques pour votre accueil et à bientôt !
Nous avons passé un merveilleux séjour dans cette belle demeure pleine d’histoire et de charme. Un des meilleurs accueils que nous avons pu avoir. Les hôtes, Jacques et Sylvaine sont adorables et aux petits soins. Les petits déjeuners sont extraordinaires et viendront à bout des plus affamés La région est juste magnifique. Nous reviendrons avec impatience dans cet établissement qui vaut le détour.
Nous avons passé 2 jours dans cet établissement accueil chaleureux aux petits soins de leurs clients chambre tres agréable et de très bons conseils pour visiter aux alentours
I had an exceptional stay at Chateau Papounan in Marseille! The owners' hospitality was truly heartwarming. The chateau's design and decor were exquisite, and my room was both beautiful and comfortable. The breakfast was a delightful feast. We left with full and happy bellies :) you could really see the effort the owners put in to prepare that breakfast. You can see their effort throughout the entire place actually! Not just the food! The rooms were gorgeous and carefully decorated. We had the chance to tour the entire place and you could tell the amount of thought they put into the rooms. We would love to come back and maybe stay in the other rooms and spend a little time in the area, as well as with the owners. We will definitely recommend this place to our friends and family! A memorable experience – 5 stars!
As I look back on our recently concluded 15-day trip to France, I realize that perhaps THE highlight was our stay at Chateau Papounan. It wasn’t the breakfasts, though they were terrific. Nor was it our room, which was more than adequate. It was our hosts, Sylvaine & Jacques Leisy. They were so welcoming, so helpful, and so generous (sharing a bottle of wine with them in their garden, with their two big dogs, will stay in my memory always). Had it been up to me, I’d have stayed longer to further engage with two folks I can only deem the ultimate hosts.
Séjour très agréable dans une charmante demeure entourée de vignes. Nuit sereine dans la chambre Océane décorée avec goûts. Un accueil chaleureux, des moments partagés avec nos hôtes que nous n’oublierons pas. Que du bonheur ! À très vite.
Sylvaine and Jacques provided us a very warm welcome and a great place to stay for our time in the region. The room was neat and all amenities provided. Breakfast in the garden was so lovely! I look forward to staying with them again.
Hôtes très sympathiques. Je recommande vivement
Chambre d'Hôtes très agréable, les propriétaires sont très accueillant. Le petit déjeuner est vraiment exceptionnel.
Bel établissement avec accueil chaleureux et service de qualité
Evaluations
Very nice
Friendly atmosphere, hosts were taking care of us all the time. Dogs were nice, friendly. Good decorations. Authentic place where you can enjoy the charm of Medoc.
Wir kommen auf jeden Fall wieder
Sylvaine und Jaques sind wahre Schätze. Bessere Gastgeber kann man nicht finden. Liebevoll eingerichtete Zimmer, stilvvolles Ambiente und ein hervoragendes Frühstück rundeten den Kurzurlaub ab.
Voortreffelijk
A hidden gem of Bordeaux region. The place is ran by a super friendly couple: Sylvaine & Jacques. Sylvaine is managing overall chateau decoration and it's stylish design, Jacques is a guru of best-of-class homemade breakfasts which are at the level of a Michelin-star restaurant. Rooms are clean. Location is ideal if you have a car, a private parking is available at the property.
Château Papounan is the perfect weekend or short stay hideaway in that beautiful St Estephe wine region. Our hosts
Exceptional location in St Estephe. Very comfortable and nicely decorated rooms.
Wonderful stay
L’accueil, la qualité des prestations
Voortreffelijk
A Perfect Stay at Château Papounan ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Exceptional Experience Our stay at Château Papounan in Saint-Estèphe was absolutely wonderful from start to finish. Jacques and Sylvaine were the most gracious hosts we could have asked for, making us feel completely at home from the moment we arrived. Outstanding Hospitality Jacques and Sylvaine went above and beyond to ensure our comfort. Their local knowledge was invaluable - they provided excellent recommendations for nearby vineyards and even offered us a lift to one of them, which was such a thoughtful touch. It's rare to find hosts who are so genuinely caring and invested in their guests' experience. Incredible Breakfast The breakfast was simply outstanding. The croissants were the best we've ever had - perfectly flaky and buttery, clearly freshly baked. The fresh fruit salad was equally impressive, bursting with flavor and beautifully presented. The eggs were cooked to perfection, adding a hearty complement to the meal. But the real surprise was being introduced to canelés de Bordeaux - a local specialty that Jacques and Sylvaine were delighted to share with us. These small, fluted pastries with their distinctive caramelized crust and soft, custardy interior are a true Bordeaux treasure. Jacques told us the fascinating story behind them: originally created by nuns in the 18th century at the Convent of the Annonciades in Bordeaux, they used leftover egg yolks from local winemakers who used egg whites to clarify their wines. The unique copper molds give them their characteristic ridged shape and that gorgeous golden exterior. Having authentic canelés in their birthplace, prepared with such care, was an unforgettable culinary experience. You can tell that quality and attention to detail matter here. Comfort & Atmosphere We had the most restful night's sleep, which speaks volumes about the comfort of the accommodations.
Fantastic
We had an incredible stay in Château Papounan. Lovely hosts and amazing breakfast. The hosts were super kind and helpful
Voortreffelijk
Die Gastgeber Jacques und Sylvaine waren der Knaller. Wir kamen uns so vor als wären wir bei alten Freunden zu Gast. Herzlicher geht es nicht mehr. Sie haben uns jeden Wunsch von den Augen abgelesen und uns ein grandioses Frühstück zubereitet. Das Chateau war sehr gemütlich eingerichtet und sehr sauber und schön. Die Lage ist ein einem Dorf, in dem es sonst nichts gibt als Weinreben. Ohne Auto ist man auf geschmissen. Wir können Chateau Papounan wärmstens empfehlen.
Excellent stay in a comfortable bed and breakfast
Chambre d'hôte très confortable, décorée avec goût, excellent petit déjeuner et des hôtes très sympathiques
Lovely on hands owners who cared about every aspect of our stay
Great breakfast wonderful people serving us a delicious homemade foods. Very accommodating went above and beyond to make us happy and enjoy every minute at their property!
Fantastic
Sehr ruhige Lage des Superior Studios im Parterre, sehr gut eingerichtet und neu. Super Frühstück mit hausgemachten Produkten, welche täglich wechseln. Sehr freundliche und hilfsbereite Gastgeber. Schöne Gegend für Spaziergänge in den Weinbergen und guter Ausgangspunkt für Ausflüge.
Voortreffelijk
Fantastic
Voortreffelijk
Die Gastgeber Jacques und Sylvaine haben uns mit ihrer warmherigen und offenen Art beeindruckt und mit ihrem Frühstück verwöhnt.
Very warm welcome
Nous avons beaucoup apprécié notre séjour! Nous étions en couple avec notre fille de 7 mois, très bon accueil. Les petits déjeuners étaient très bons.
Voortreffelijk
Sehr gutes Frühstück. Große Zimmer mit geschmackvoller Einrichtung. Nette Gastgeber.
Evaluations
Lovely location, lovely people
Sylvaine & Jacques have a lovely property and they are fantastic hosts We were given a well equipped room in immaculate condition with a very comfortable bed. They were very helpful, from our first contact at booking to our last goodbyes, helping us with all manner of things to make our trip go smoothly Can't praise them enough (plus breakfasts are incredible)
Excellent B&B in Saint-Estephe
Three of us spent five nights at Chateau Papounan. The hospitality of Jacques and Sylvaine significantly enhanced our visit to the Medoc. The rooms were clean and were furnished in well-thought-out ways. Two of us shared the ground-level room that had an exterior door. We made good use of the kitchenette with its table, chairs, sink, cabinets, microwave/conventional oven, cooktop, refrigerator, dishes, and utensils. The bed was firm and comfortable. Everything in the bathroom worked well. We made daily use of the phone-charging pad. Outside was an electric charger for automobiles, and each evening Jacques plugged it into our electric car. The breakfasts were terrific, with a delicious assortment of tasty items. Sylvain and Jacques are delightful hosts. They were responsive and helpful throughout our stay.
A Trip Highlight
As I look back on our recently concluded 15-day trip to France, I realize that perhaps THE highlight was our stay at Chateau Papounan. It wasn’t the breakfasts, though they were terrific. Nor was it our room, which was more than adequate. It was our hosts, Sylvaine & Jacques Leisy. They were so welcoming, so helpful, and so generous (sharing a bottle of wine with them in their garden, with their two big dogs, will stay in my memory always). Had it been up to me, I’d have stayed longer to further engage with two folks I can only deem the ultimate hosts.
Outstanding accommodations with great hosts, loved our visit and highly recommended for a traditional stay in a small bill
The stay was excellent and our hosts Jaques and Sylvayne could not do enough for us over our four day stay. Our room was a double room on the ground floor and was quaintly decorated in a traditional style We breakfasted outside on the terace with delicious home made croissants, bread, Jams, fresh fruit and yogurt. The whole experience was delightful. Jaques and Sylvayne were great company and helped with local knowledge for restaurants and shopping, all exceptionally helpful All I all a fantastic choice for our stay
nd
Wonderful welcome from Sylvaine et Jacques ! the room and Bed are very comfortable and breakfast was just great the place is perfect for one day business trip or longer loved the calm around the chateau many thanks againsee you soon
Evaluations
Geweldige B&B met een uitzonderlijk goed ontbijt. Jacques en Sylvaine zijn heel vriendelijk en doen hard hun best om je een leuke tijd te geven. Ze hebben ook goede aanbevelingen voor restaurants en wijn chateaux om te bezoeken. Geweldige uitvalsbasis om de Medoc te verkennen.
Thank you so much for a wonderful stay. We enjoyed 3 nights at beautiful Château Papounan. The room was nice and clean. The hosts made us feel so welcome, almost like family. The breakfast was amazing. We would recommend this place to all our friends and family.
If we ever attend the Médoc marathon again we would stay here for sure.
Ein wahrer Traum. Chateau Papounan hat unsere Erwartungen übertroffen. Super Hosts und ein echter Geheimtipp! Vielen vielen Dank :)
Excellent hospitality from Sylvaine and Jacques. Such a friendly couple and fantastic hosts. Very accommodating
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at this lovely place. Beautiful and spotless clean. The area is very peaceful and tranquil.
The delicious and abundant breakfast in the morning quickly become our favourite part of the day. We were spoiled !
Ultimately a great place to stay with very great hosts.
Would absolutely recommend this place to anyone.
A wonderful apartment provided by wonderful hosts. Would totally recommend.
Surrounded by beautiful vineyards, this the perfect place to enjoy great wine and visit beautiful chateaus. Even if you’re not interested in the latter, it remains a great destination as it is close to beautiful beaches along the Atlantic coast as well as the city of Bordeaux.
The breakfast was excellent and the hosts were so welcoming and supportive. It is rare that you will remember the hosts as much as the destination.
Thank you for everything and we hope to come back soon.
Exceptionnel ++++du logement au petit déjeuner sans compter sur l’accueil et les conseils des hôtes.
Studio très bien équipé, décoré avec goût, une literie de confort indispensable pour passer un bon séjour et d’une propreté impeccable.
Vous pouvez vous rendre chez Sylvaine et Jacques sans hésitation.
Nous reviendrons avec grand plaisir et ne manquerons pas de vous recommander👍
The host, Sylvaine, was absolutely fantastic. Friendly, hospitable, and just amazing in every respect. She booked a great restaurant for us on the first night, and for the second, when there were no restaurants available, we dined together and shared a bottle of champagne. The breakfasts that she prepared for us were the best we've had on our trip. All dishes were homemade at the Château. I would give Sylvaine a 10 rating if I could. simply amazing.
Jacques & Sylvaine were perfect hosts! They recommended many different places for us to visit (restaurants, beaches, wineries etc), which were all great suggestions. The Château Papounan was really nice and cozy place where you would like to stay longer.
Great hosts and a perfect place to relax, would definitely recommend to others!
Harvest at Château Papounan
It was a little before 8 a.m. when we began our third harvest at Château Papounan. The morning was cool, but we knew the sun