Lalaudey belong to Patrick Menard, who was in the lucky position of being accountant to the seller, M. Delacroix, owner of the Relais de Margaux, so knew that it was for sale. He has expanded the vineyard with parcels bought from neighbouring Château Pomeys, and it now covers 14 hectares. The small team led by Michel and Giselle (pictured) has been in place since M. Delacroix bought the original 7 hectares in 2002. The vineyard stands on the highest 'croupe' (gravel bank) in the Médoc, the 'Grande Bouqueyran', at 47 metres above sea level The vineyard is composed entirely of tertiary gravels. They have dug down 4.5 metres and found nothing but gravel. The vines is immaculately tended and ploughed (not weed-killed). The winery is modern and well-equipped, The first wine is given 50% new wood, with barrels from many different origins and makers and this adds to the complexity in the finished product.