Château Maucaillou, Bordeaux

Historic Building and Vinyard near Bordeaux

CC BY-SA 4.0 / PA

Château Maucaillou is one of the top sights in Moulis-en-Médoc for wine travellers seeking a balance of heritage, craftsmanship, and charm. Founded in the late 19th century, the estate sits on rocky soils once deemed unsuitable for crops-yet perfect for cultivating the premium grape varieties that thrive in the Médoc. With its eclectic château, beautifully maintained grounds, and a wine museum celebrating Bordeaux's viticultural past, it's a great place to visit on a walking tour of Moulis-en-Médoc or as part of a wider Route des Châteaux itinerary.

The estate’s vineyards stretch across 86 hectares, producing wines known for structure, balance, and excellent aging potential. Cabernet Sauvignon dominates the blend, complemented by Merlot and Petit Verdot, creating cuvées that reflect both tradition and modern precision. A visit here offers a relaxed, immersive introduction to the character of the Moulis terroir.

History and Significance of Château Maucaillou
Things to See and Do in Château Maucaillou
How to Get There
Practical Tips on Visiting Château Maucaillou
Where to Stay close to Château Maucaillou
Is Château Maucaillou Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Château Maucaillou
Nearby Attractions to Château Maucaillou

History and Significance of Château Maucaillou

The estate was established in 1871 by the Petit-Laroche family, prominent wine merchants who understood the potential of the region’s “mauvais cailloux,” or “bad stones.” These poor, gravel-rich soils became the foundation for Château Maucaillou’s distinct identity, contributing drainage and heat retention ideal for ripening grapes.

The château itself, completed in 1875, is an architectural curiosity-an eclectic blend of Renaissance influences and 17th-century decorative details. Over time, the estate expanded under the stewardship of the Dourthe family, who modernised the winemaking facilities while preserving its heritage. The addition of a comprehensive wine museum further cemented Maucaillou’s reputation as both an educational and cultural stop in the Médoc.

Things to See and Do in Château Maucaillou

Visitors can enjoy a guided tour through the estate’s cellars, learning about fermentation practices, barrel aging, and the unique attributes of the Moulis appellation. Tastings allow you to sample the Grand Vin, as well as the estate’s second and third wines, each expressing different nuances of the terroir.

One highlight is the Musée du Vin at the château, which features antique winemaking tools, historical documents, and regional artworks. The museum offers context for Bordeaux’s wine traditions, making it especially rewarding for first-time visitors to the Médoc. The landscaped grounds, ornate château façade, and barrel rooms also offer excellent opportunities for photography.

How to Get There

Château Maucaillou is located in Moulis-en-Médoc, roughly 35 kilometres northwest of Bordeaux. The most convenient way to reach the estate is by car, which also allows flexibility to explore nearby vineyards along the scenic D2 Route des Châteaux. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you. Those relying on public transport can take a regional train from Bordeaux to Moulis or to the nearby stations at Margaux or Pauillac, followed by a short taxi ride. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place. Travellers flying into the region will arrive at Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Bordeaux on Booking.com.

Practical Tips on Visiting Château Maucaillou

Best time to visit Château Maucaillou: May to October for ideal weather and vineyard scenery.
Entrance fee: Full Tour & Tasting: From €12 (includes cellar visit & tasting).
Opening hours: From May 1st to September 30th: every hour from 10am to 5pm. From October 1st to April 30th: 10am, 11am, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm.
Official website: https://www.maucaillou.com/?lang=en
How long to spend: 1.5 to 2 hours.
Accessibility: Some areas accessible; contact the estate for details.
Facilities: Tasting rooms, wine museum, boutique, restrooms.
Photography tip: Capture the château’s Renaissance-inspired façade from the main garden.
Guided-tours: Available in multiple languages by reservation.
Nearby food options: Restaurants and wine bars in Moulis, Listrac, and Margaux.

Where to Stay close to Château Maucaillou

The Moulis-en-Médoc area offers several inviting places to stay for wine enthusiasts. For a comfortable countryside retreat, Château Beau Jardin provides charming accommodations near several top estates. Another excellent option is Villabordoh Guest House, ideal for exploring the wider Médoc. Travellers seeking a more traditional stay may enjoy Hôtel de France et d’Angleterre, offering river views and local hospitality.

Is Château Maucaillou Worth Visiting?

Yes-Château Maucaillou is one of the best places to visit in Moulis-en-Médoc for those who want a blend of history, approachable wine tasting, and architectural charm. Its museum adds depth to the experience, making it ideal for travellers who appreciate both culture and craftsmanship.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

5.0 (8)

Vigne Art" au Château Maucaillou on Rte de la Gare in Moulis-en-Médoc pairs a handsome château and its museum with colorful contemporary artworks installed through the vineyards and on technical installations; visitors praise the imaginative, offbeat decorations by artist Selor that animate wind turbines and walls with half-human, half-fox figures and playful wordplay, and they highlight an exceptional museum, welcoming professional staff, enjoyable tastings, and good-value wines that make the visit well worth the detour.

Médoc Escapade

2 years ago

"While strolling through the vineyards of Château Maucaillou 🍷🍇nCome and discover the works of David Selor, who decorates the walls with hishalf-human, half-fox creature, accompanied by puns. 😊☀️..."

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Ilona Capitaine

3 years ago

"Château Maucaillou is such a beautiful château! And the art in the vineyards is worth the detour, colorful and refined…! We loved visiting themuseum. And superb tasting. Thank you. 😍🍷🏅..."

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Cédrine Roy

3 years ago

"A big thank you for this wonderful day. A visit as interesting as it was surprising. Places filled with life, strength, emotions, memories. Anexceptional museum, a cellar that makes you want to curl up in it, wind turbines inhabited by the characters of the graffiti artist Selor. All carried by wonderful, caring, joyful, and very professional people. Thank you again......"

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FAQs for Visiting Château Maucaillou

It’s strongly recommended, especially during summer and weekends.

Yes, most visits combine both.

Yes, a range of vintages is available at the boutique.

Absolutely-the museum and guided tours make it very accessible.

Yes, though tastings are reserved for adults.

Nearby Attractions to Château Maucaillou

Château Chasse-Spleen: A nearby Moulis estate known for elegant, age-worthy wines.
Château Poujeaux: Another notable Moulis property with acclaimed reds.
Margaux Village: A charming stop with wine shops and cafés.
Château d'Agassac: A fairy-tale château offering family-friendly tours.
Pauillac Waterfront: A pleasant riverside promenade with restaurants and Médoc views.

The Château Maucaillou appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bordeaux!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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