Back in the late 18th century when Chateau Trotanoy was owned by the Giraud family, the estate went by a different name: Trop Ennuie. This literally translates to "too annoying," a reference to the stubborn soil. What is bad for agriculture, however, is often good for viticulture. The gravelly soil atop the Pomerol Plateau provides excellent drainage for the vines, improving grape concentration.

With only 7.5 hectares under vine, the harvest at Chateau Trotanoy is often finished in a mere two days. The varietal distribution--90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc--is typical of Pomerol. These wines are some of the most aromatically complex, fascinating and refined reds in the appellation. Beneath their velvety texture and expressive aromas of ripe fruits, iron, game, nuts, spices and minerals is a supple but serious tannic structure that requires at least five to ten years of bottle aging. Today, Trotanoy is owned by the Moueix family, also owners of Pomerol giant, Chateau Petrus.