Château Balestard La Tonnelle: The Origins Tour

Châteaux Balestard La Tonnelle’s Origins Tour invites visitors on a captivating journey through the estate’s rich history and innovative winemaking practices. Located in the renowned Saint-Emilion region, this Grand Cru Classé vineyard offers an immersive one-hour experience that showcases its architectural marvels and iconic terroir. Guided by knowledgeable experts, guests can discover the family’s nearly 400-year legacy while enjoying panoramic views, exploring the award-winning bioclimatic cellar, and uncovering the secrets behind the exceptional wines that have earned the estate its celebrated reputation. With a wealth of insights and exclusive access, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression on any wine enthusiast or history buff.

Key Points

• The Origins Tour at Château Balestard La Tonnelle offers a one-hour guided exploration of the estate’s 15th-century watchtower, bioclimatic cellar, and historic Grand Cru Classé vineyards.
• The tour provides a 360-degree panoramic view of the Saint-Emilion landscape from the estate’s terrace, immersing visitors in the breathtaking scenery.
• Visitors can learn about the Capdemourlin family’s nearly 400-year legacy of winemaking and their commitment to quality and tradition in the region.
• The tour includes a visit to the architect-designed bioclimatic cellar, which leverages passive heating and cooling techniques to ensure optimal conditions for aging Grand Cru Classé wines.
• The tour is available in both French and English, with flexible booking options and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of Château Balestard La Tonnelle

Château Balestard La Tonnelle is a Grand Cru Classé vineyard located just 10 minutes’ walk from the medieval village of Saint-Emilion.

It’s been managed by the Capdemourlin family since 1647, making them one of the long-standing winemaking families in the region.

Nestled on the iconic limestone plateau of Saint-Emilion, the estate boasts a 15th-century watchtower and a modern, architect-designed bioclimatic cellar built in 2019.

Visitors can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the picturesque Saint-Emilion from the property’s terrace.

With its rich history, unique terroir, and commitment to sustainable practices, Château Balestard La Tonnelle offers a truly immersive experience for wine enthusiasts.

Guided Tour Details

The guided tour at Château Balestard La Tonnelle takes visitors on an immersive journey through the estate’s rich history and winemaking practices.

Lasting one hour, the tour is available in both French and English and is limited to a maximum of 8 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Visitors will be treated to a 360° panoramic view of the stunning Saint-Emilion landscape from the property’s terrace.

The tour also includes a visit to the architect-designed bioclimatic cellar, completed in 2019, as well as the 15th-century watchtower and the iconic limestone plateau that defines the region’s unique terroir.

Throughout the experience, guests will gain insight into the Capdemourlin family’s winemaking legacy, which dates back to 1647.

360° Panoramic Terrace

A stunning 360-degree panoramic terrace greets visitors, offering sweeping vistas of the iconic Saint-Emilion landscape. This elevated viewpoint provides a unique perspective on the region’s rolling hills, charming medieval village, and the family’s historic Grand Cru Classé vineyards. The terrace’s open design allows guests to fully enjoy the breathtaking scenery as they learn about the estate’s rich winemaking legacy.

Feature	Benefit
Panoramic Views	Appreciation of the region’s natural beauty
Elevated Perspective	Unique insights into the renowned Saint-Emilion terroir
Open Design	Unobstructed sightlines and immersive experience
Historic Setting	Connection to the estate’s centuries-old winemaking tradition

This panoramic terrace is a highlight of the Château Balestard La Tonnelle tour, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the splendor of the Saint-Emilion region.

Architect-Designed Bioclimatic Cellar

Visitors can next explore the architect-designed bioclimatic cellar, built in 2019 to seamlessly integrate with the estate’s historic winemaking operations.

This state-of-the-art facility leverages passive heating and cooling techniques to minimize the property’s environmental impact while ensuring optimal conditions for the aging and maturation of the renowned Grand Cru Classé wines.

Constructed using local limestone and other natural materials, the cellar’s intelligent design maximizes airflow and temperature regulation through strategic window placement and insulation.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Limestone Plateau of Saint-Emilion

Perched atop the renowned limestone plateau of Saint-Emilion, the vineyards of Château Balestard La Tonnelle benefit from the unique geological composition that has long defined the region’s acclaimed terroir.

The ancient soils, dating back millions of years, are composed primarily of limestone, clay, and sand, creating a perfect environment for growing the Merlot and Cabernet Franc grapes that thrive in this area.

This distinctive terroir imparts a signature minerality and elegance to the wines, which are further enhanced by the estate’s meticulous viticultural practices.

As visitors explore the property, they’ll gain a deeper appreciation for how this unique limestone plateau shapes the remarkable character of the wines produced here.

15th-Century Watchtower

Towering over the estate’s rolling vineyards, the 15th-century watchtower stands as a testament to the rich history of Château Balestard La Tonnelle.

This impressive structure, built centuries ago, provided a strategic vantage point for the estate’s proprietors to monitor their domain and the surrounding countryside.

Visitors can marvel at the striking limestone walls and Gothic architectural details that have been carefully preserved over the centuries.

The watchtower offers a unique glimpse into the estate’s storied past, serving as a tangible connection to the Capdemourlin family’s nearly 400-year legacy in Saint-Emilion.

Exploring this historic landmark is a highlight of the Origins Tour, transporting guests back in time to experience the grandeur of Château Balestard La Tonnelle’s remarkable heritage.

Winemaking Family History

The Capdemourlin family’s winemaking legacy in Saint-Emilion stretches back nearly four centuries, with the estate having been under their stewardship since 1647. Through generations of dedication and expertise, the family has honed their craft, continually refining the production of their acclaimed Grand Cru Classé wines.

Year	Milestone
1647	Capdemourlin family acquires Château Balestard La Tonnelle
1989	Fifth-generation winemaker takes over operations
2019	Estate’s bioclimatic cellar designed by architect

The family’s unwavering commitment to quality and tradition has earned Château Balestard La Tonnelle a respected reputation among the finest estates in the Saint-Emilion appellation, solidifying its position as a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts.

Booking and Inclusions

Visitors to Château Balestard La Tonnelle can book the Origins Tour, which includes a one-hour guided exploration of the estate and a tasting of two wines, including a Grand Cru Classé.

The tour is available in both French and English, and the group size is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

The property’s shop is also accessible during the tour, and free parking is provided.

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the option to reserve now and pay later.

Whether visitors are interested in the property’s architecture, winemaking history, or simply the stunning panoramic views, the Origins Tour offers a comprehensive introduction to this iconic Saint-Emilion estate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Temperature in the Bioclimatic Cellar?

The bioclimatic cellar at Château Balestard La Tonnelle maintains a constant temperature of around 14°C (57°F) throughout the year, thanks to its architect-designed features that regulate the environment without the need for energy-intensive climate control.

Can I Bring My Own Food During the Tour?

No, visitors cannot bring their own food during the tour. The tour includes a tasting of 2 wines, but does not provide any additional food items. Visitors are expected to enjoy the wine tastings provided as part of the guided experience.

Do You Offer Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

Château Balestard La Tonnelle offers discounted tour tickets for students and seniors. The discount is 10% off the regular tour price. To receive the discount, visitors must present valid student or senior identification at the time of booking.

How Often Are the Wines in the Tasting Changed?

The wines featured in the tasting are rotated regularly, typically changing every few weeks. This allows visitors to experience the chateau’s diverse portfolio and discover new vintages on each visit.

Is There an Opportunity to Purchase Wines Directly From the Estate?

Yes, the tour includes access to the estate’s shop, allowing visitors to purchase wines directly from Château Balestard La Tonnelle. Guests can select from the winery’s Grand Cru Classé offerings during or after the guided tour.

Recap

The Origins Tour at Château Balestard La Tonnelle offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the estate’s rich history and innovative winemaking.

From the panoramic terrace to the architect-designed cellar, guests gain a comprehensive understanding of the factors that define the renowned Saint-Emilion terroir.

Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour provides an immersive experience that showcases the Capdemourlin family’s nearly 400-year legacy of winemaking excellence.

You can check if your dates are available here: