Edmond de Rothschild
Introduction
The passion for wine, which leads the French branch of the Rothschild family, was born in 1868, when James de Rothschild's family bought Chateau Lafite. His great grandson, Edmond de Rothschild, began a new chapter in the wine adventure in 1973 by buying two Crus Bourgeois in Listrac and Moulis-en-Médoc, as well as Chateau Clarke and Chateau Malmaison in Bordeaux.
In 1997 Benjamin and Ariane de Rothschild gave a large impetus to the development of Compagnie Vignole, discovering new terroirs all over the world. Surronding themselves with wonderful people, the Rothschild family discovered the subtleties and specificity of their new sites. It is because of these friendships and trusting relations that the famous estates and wines of Compagnie Vignole were born - first of South Africa, followed by Argentina, Spain and finally New Zealand.
"Courage contains genius, strength and magic" - Goethe
History
The history of the Rothschilds dates back to the 16th century, but it really began in Germany in the mid-18th century when Mayer Amschel became a famous businessman who at the end of the century gave his five sons the chance to become partners so that they could get to know the family business. His sons were very talented and set up branches in various European cities: one remained in Frankfurt, while his brothers settled in London, Paris, Vienna and Naples. Their worldwide banking success made the Rothschild plants legendary and funded the Wellington army, the gold rush, the Suez Canal, railroad development, and oil exploration. The Rothschild name quickly became synonymous with quality and excellence. The passion for creation and innovation has been passed on in this family for over 250 years. The prestige of this legendary name shines in many areas: finance, philanthropy, winemaking, science, fine arts, sailing ... Each generation continues to enrich the family heritage that combines modernity and elegance.
The five arrows in the Rothschild family crest symbolize five brothers, who started this enterprising dynasty: 5 sons of Mayer Amschel Rothschild.
Listrac and Château des Laurets
Edmond de Rothschild wanted to revive the unknown Médoc variety instead of continuing to produce proven grapevines, thus turning into an iconic vineyard that is now called Listrac. The same vision inspired Benjamin de Rothschild in 2003 when he bought the Château des Laurets, an unprofitable wine fortune. Intrigued by his heritage, he undertook its reconstruction.
New sites
Argentina, Spain, South Africa, New Zealand
Different landscapes for unique varieties. Steadfast countries. Surrounding themselves wisely with local experts, the Rothschild family learned about the local delicacies and specialties of these new estates. These men and women shared their knowledge and love for the land, and hence the friendships and trust leading to the famous years of Compagnie Vinicole.
