Life on the estate 3 questions for Alexandra Machado, house manager

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April 30, 2026

At Château d’Issan, a Grand Cru Classé 1855 in Margaux, every profession contributes to bringing to life a place steeped in four centuries of history. Behind the château’s doors, in the day-to-day behind the scenes, the attention paid to detail and the care given to every space fully shape the experience of the estate.

Since 2016, Alexandra Machado, the estate’s house manager, has discreetly and rigorously overseen the upkeep and daily life of the château, in a deeply human role, working closely with the Cruse family.

 

1. How would you describe your role as house manager at Château d’Issan?

 

“My journey at Château d’Issan began in 2008, when I was hired by Mr. Lionel Cruse to take care of his sister, Mrs. Nicole Cruse Tesseron, at Château La Houneau located in Gradignan. My husband and I worked for her for nearly ten years. It was a very special, almost family-like relationship, and she taught me a great deal, particularly about caring for objects and the home.

After her passing, I joined the estate team, where I worked as a vineyard worker. I discovered vineyard work, the seasons, the gestures… before being called to work at the château as house manager in 2018.

Today, my days are very varied. I oversee the upkeep of the château, the opening and closing of its 40 shutters, the care of reception rooms, linens, silverware, and parquet floors. I also help prepare the rooms when the family hosts guests. I am also responsible for ensuring the smooth running of catering services during lunches and dinners held at the estate.

Every detail matters. It is a discreet job, but an essential one to preserve the elegance and soul of the place.”

2. What have you discovered by living and working at Château d’Issan?

“Living on a wine estate like Issan is a unique experience. My family and I live on the property, in the heart of the Margaux vineyards. This creates a very special bond with the place and with nature.

The château itself is impressive. Working every day among antique furniture, tapestries, historical objects… it is quite rare. Over time, you get used to it, but there are always details that remind you of the history and beauty of the estate.

Some spaces have particularly struck me, such as the château chapel. It is a unique, unexpected place, with very beautiful ceiling paintings. There are also all these objects passed down through generations. Finding certain items that belonged to Emmanuel Cruse’s aunt, whom I used to take care of, is very moving for me. I continue to care for them today, carrying on what she taught me.

That is also Issan: a living place, where history is passed on every day.”

3. What moments have marked you the most since you arrived?

“There are many memories, but some moments remain especially important.

I think in particular of my first harvests. It was a completely new discovery for me: I didn’t yet know the world of wine, nor even all the French words. The teams helped me a lot, both with the work and the language. I have very fond memories of it.

I also appreciate those periods when everyone comes together, such as harvest time, primeur tastings, or receptions. These are moments when we work together and bonds are strengthened.

Over the years, I have also watched the family’s children grow up alongside my own. These are simple but precious memories, showing just how much Issan is a place of life, beyond its status as a Grand Cru Classé.

Today, I feel fully integrated here. Even in my relationship with wine, I’ve evolved: I didn’t use to drink it before, and I’ve learned to appreciate it. The one from Issan remains, of course, my favorite "

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