Nestled in the heart of Beaujolais, Château du Moulin-à-Vent offers a captivating journey through the rich history of its renowned terroirs. Established in 1732, this iconic estate beckons visitors to explore its striking 16th-century architecture and explore the exceptional quality of its wines, shaped by the region’s unique granitic soils and microclimate. From a guided tasting of the estate’s exclusive micro-cuvée to an immersion in its commitment to organic farming, the experience promises to unveil the intricate tapestry of this legendary appellation. Step into the vaulted cellars, and uncover the stories that have made Château du Moulin-à-Vent a true icon of Beaujolais.
Key Points
- Explore the rich history of Château du Moulin-à-Vent, a benchmark estate in the Moulin-à-Vent appellation since 1732 with ownership transitions over the centuries.
- Discover the unique terroir of the estate, characterized by granitic soils and pink sands, and the impact of winds that create a distinct microclimate.
- Experience a guided tour and wine tasting featuring three single-parcel selections and the limited-production micro-cuvée Clos de Londres from the 2015 vintage.
- Observe the estate’s commitment to organic farming and massal selection, which preserve the unique characteristics of the terroir and promote sustainability.
- Visit the historic vaulted cellars dating back to the 16th century and gain insight into the architectural heritage and winemaking philosophy of Château du Moulin-à-Vent.
Tour Overview
The tour at Château du Moulin-à-Vent lasts 1.5 hours and starts from 4 Rue des Thorins.
Offered in English and French, it’s wheelchair accessible. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour includes a guided exploration of the château, a 30-minute wine tasting featuring 5 cuvées, and access to the estate’s vaulted cellar dating back to the 16th century.
Visitors will also enjoy a privileged viewpoint from the terrace overlooking the Moulin-à-Vent appellation and a visit to the renowned Clos de Londres vineyard.
Reserving now and paying later allows guests to secure their spot for this immersive experience.
Itinerary Highlights
The guided tour begins with an exploration of Château du Moulin-à-Vent, a benchmark estate since 1732.
Guests will savor a 30-minute wine tasting featuring five cuvées, including three single-parcel selections.
The tour then moves to a privileged viewpoint on the terrace, offering stunning vistas of the appellation.
Next, visitors explore the vaulted cellar, dating back to the 16th century.
The finale is a visit to Clos de Londres, the estate’s emblematic vineyard.
Throughout, the guide provides insight into the estate’s history, transition to organic farming, and the technical aspects of Moulin-à-Vent’s unique terroir.
Historical Context
Château du Moulin-à-Vent has been a benchmark estate since 1732, with a rich history spanning three centuries alongside notable families. The estate has transitioned through ownership by the Guignier, Rotschild, and Parinet families, each leaving their mark. In recent years, the focus has shifted towards organic farming and massal selection, ensuring the estate’s wines remain true to their terroir.
| Year | Owner |
|---|---|
| 1732 | Guignier Family |
| 1851 | Rothschild Family |
| 1927 | Parinet Family |
| 2012 | Organic Farming Adopted |
This historical context provides a deeper appreciation for the evolution of Château du Moulin-à-Vent and the dedication to crafting exceptional wines that reflect the unique Moulin-à-Vent appellation.
Terroir and Technical Aspects
Moulin-à-Vent’s granitic soils and unique pink sands are the focus for this in-depth exploration.
The impact of winds on the AOC and vineyard diversity is crucial, creating a distinct microclimate. Technical explanations shed light on the estate’s methods and choices in wine production, emphasizing the genesis of wines from harvest to aging in the vaulted cellar.
This includes:
- Careful canopy management to harness the Beaujolais wind
- Massal selection to preserve the estate’s genetic diversity
- Precise temperature and humidity control in the historic cellars
- Extended maceration and extended lees aging for structured wines
- Minimal intervention, allowing the terroir to shine through
Wine Tasting Experience
The tasting takes place in the Chapelle des Thorins, an atmospheric setting that enhances the overall experience of the terroirs.
Three single-parcel selections are featured: Les Vérillats, Champ de Cour, and La Rochelle.
Plus, guests will sample the micro-cuvée Clos de Londres from the exceptional 2015 vintage, produced in fewer than 2,000 bottles.
This tasting provides an intimate exploration of Moulin-à-Vent’s unique terroirs and winemaking philosophy, showcasing the estate’s commitment to quality and sustainability.
Exploring Centuries of History
A rich legacy dating back to 1732 underpins the renowned Château du Moulin-à-Vent, a benchmark estate in the Beaujolais region.
Visitors can explore three centuries of history alongside the notable families who’ve shaped this iconic property. The tour offers insight into the estate’s transition to organic farming and massal selection, a key factor in the wines’ distinctive character.
Highlights include:
- Discovering the estate’s evolution through the lens of its owners
- Gaining an understanding of the property’s architectural heritage
- Learning about the estate’s commitment to sustainable viticulture
- Appreciating the significance of the Clos de Londres vineyard
- Exploring the vaulted cellars, dating back to the 16th century.
Organic Farming and Massal Selection
Embracing a forward-thinking approach, the Château du Moulin-à-Vent team has wholeheartedly committed to organic farming and massal selection – practices that lie at the heart of the estate’s viticultural philosophy.
This commitment ensures the preservation of the terroir‘s unique characteristics and the continuation of the estate’s storied legacy.
Through organic methods, the team nurtures the land’s natural cycles, promoting biodiversity and sustainability.
Massal selection, meanwhile, safeguards the genetic diversity of the vines, guaranteeing the authenticity of the estate’s renowned Gamay wines.
These holistic practices not only respect the environment but also uphold the timeless traditions that have shaped Château du Moulin-à-Vent’s distinguished reputation.
Exceptional Micro-Cuvée From 2015
Amidst the estate’s celebrated portfolio, the micro-cuvée Clos de Londres from the exceptional 2015 vintage stands out as a true gem.
Produced in fewer than 2,000 bottles, this singular expression captures the very essence of the Clos de Londres vineyard. The tasting experience takes place in the Chapelle des Thorins, which enhances the overall sensorial journey through the terroirs.
The wine showcases:
- Intense aromas of ripe red fruits, violets, and spice
- A full-bodied palate with silky tannins and remarkable depth
- A perfect balance between power and elegance
- Excellent aging potential, rewarding patient cellar keepers
- A true reflection of the estate’s commitment to quality and authenticity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Operating Hours of the Château?
The Château du Moulin-à-Vent tour is 1.5 hours long and runs in English and French. The château is wheelchair accessible and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no specific dress code for the tour. Visitors are encouraged to dress comfortably, as the tour involves walking and exploring the estate’s vineyards and facilities. Comfortable shoes are recommended.
Is the Wine Tasting Included in the Tour Price?
Yes, the wine tasting is included in the tour price. The 1.5-hour guided tour features a 30-minute wine tasting featuring 5 cuvées, including 3 single-parcel selections.
Can I Purchase the Wines Tasted During the Visit?
Yes, visitors can purchase the wines tasted during the tour. The tour includes a wine tasting of 5 cuvées, and guests can buy these wines to take home and enjoy after the visit.
Are There Any Nearby Restaurants or Accommodations Recommended?
There are several recommended restaurants and accommodations in the area. Le Relais de Moulin-à-Vent, a local winery with dining, is just a short walk from the château. There are also a few charming inns and hotels nearby to consider for overnight stays.
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Sum Up
Château du Moulin-à-Vent offers an immersive experience into the rich history of its terroirs dating back to 1732. Visitors can explore the estate’s stunning architecture, savor exceptional cuvées, and discover the unique granitic soils and microclimate that contribute to the exceptional quality of the wines. The estate’s commitment to organic farming and sustainable practices further enhances the experience.