Nestled in the picturesque Beaujolais region, a unique wine tour awaits those seeking to uncover the rich history and distinct terroirs of two esteemed estates. Visitors can embark on a journey that starts at Château Des Thorins, renowned for its exceptional wines, before exploring the 18th-century Château Du Moulin-À-Vent. Through a guided tour and tastings, guests will explore the intricate nuances that make this wine region so captivating, setting the stage for an immersive and enriching experience.
Key Points
- The guided tour at Château du Moulin-à-Vent offers insights into the estate’s history, unique terroirs, and winemaking processes.
- The tour includes a visit to the 16th-century vaulted cellars and a wine tasting featuring four cuveés.
- The terrace viewpoint provides a panoramic perspective of the Moulin-à-Vent appellation and its five distinct terroirs.
- The wine tasting experience highlights the influence of vintage variations and the unique characteristics of each terroir.
- Château du Moulin-à-Vent is wheelchair accessible, and private group tours are available for a personalized experience.
Overview of the Experience
The Châteaux visit offers a guided tour of Château du Moulin-à-Vent, blending historical insights with modern perspectives.
This one-hour experience is available in English and French, making it accessible to a wide audience. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and private group options are available.
Priced from £24.56 per person, the visit includes a guided tour of the property and a wine tasting.
Highlights include a privileged viewpoint from the terrace, tasting of four cuvées, and an exploration of the château’s unique terroirs.
Visitors can also explore the technical aspects of winemaking, from harvest to maturation.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Beaujolais.
Itinerary and Activities
The visit begins at Château du Moulin-à-Vent, where guests embark on a guided tour lasting approximately 30 minutes. This provides historical insight into the estate, established in 1732.
Visitors then head to the vaulted cellar from the 16th century, a highlight of the experience. The tour culminates in a 30-minute wine tasting, featuring four cuvées – two single-vineyards and one older vintage.
Guests enjoy a privileged viewpoint from the terrace, overlooking the appellation and exploring the unique terroirs, including 5 out of 69 that are visible.
The tour offers technical insights into the winemaking process, from harvest to maturation, as well as an appreciation of vintage effects on the wines.
Privileged Viewpoint and Terroirs
From the terrace, visitors enjoy a privileged viewpoint overlooking the appellation. This panoramic perspective allows them to appreciate the unique terroirs that contribute to the character of the Château du Moulin-à-Vent wines.
The tour explores five of the 69 distinct terroirs visible, showcasing the diversity and complexity of this renowned winemaking region. Guests gain historical insight into the château, established in 1732, and learn about the technical aspects that shape the wines, from harvest to maturation.
The tasting experience highlights the influence of vintage variations, providing a deeper understanding of the château’s curated offerings, which include two single-vineyard and one older vintage cuvées.
Wine Tasting and Cuvées
Following the tour’s panoramic exploration of the châ teau’s diverse terroirs, guests are invited to a 30-minute wine tasting session.
Here, they’ll sample four distinct cuvées, including two single-vineyard wines and one older vintage. This tasting experience allows visitors to appreciate the nuanced effects of vintage variations on the châ teau’s prized wines.
The highlight of the session lies in:
- Savoring the unique characteristics of each terroir represented in the tasting.
- Understanding the technical choices and methods that shape the wine’s genesis, from harvest to maturation.
- Exploring how the châ teau’s long history, dating back to 1732, is reflected in the evolution of its renowned vintages.
Historical Insights
Tracing the château’s storied past, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the historic setting that has nurtured its renowned wines.
Established in 1732, Château du Moulin-à-Vent boasts a rich history that unfolds during the guided tour. Guests explore the vaulted cellars from the 16th century, discovering the château’s evolution over the centuries.
Insights into the property’s historical importance and its role in the Moulin-à-Vent appellation provide context for the exceptional terroirs and winemaking practices.
Technical Aspects and Wine Genesis
Throughout the guided tour, visitors explore the technical aspects and wine genesis at Château du Moulin-à-Vent. The focus is on understanding the methods, choices, and the journey of the wine from harvest to maturation.
Tasting the wines allows guests to appreciate the impact of vintage variations. The experience provides:
- Insights into the winemaking process, from grape selection to aging.
- Exploration of the estate’s unique terroirs and their influence on the wines.
- Opportunity to savor the differences between single-vineyard and older vintage cuvées.
This technical deep-dive complements the historical exploration, offering a comprehensive understanding of Château du Moulin-à-Vent’s winemaking legacy.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Visitors can easily book and manage their Château du Moulin-à-Vent tour experience.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing for flexibility. Guests can reserve their spot without upfront payment through the "reserve now & pay later" option.
To check availability for specific dates and times, visitors can simply inquire.
With these convenient booking and cancellation policies, guests can confidently plan their visit to this historic château and enjoy its captivating blend of history and modernity.
Accessibility and Group Options
How accessible is the Château du Moulin-à-Vent for visitors? The château is wheelchair accessible, making it a welcoming destination for all.
Regarding group options, private group tours are available, allowing for a more personalized experience.
Some key advantages of the group tours include:
- Tailored itinerary: The private tour can be customized to meet the specific interests and needs of the group.
- Exclusive access: The group may have the opportunity to explore areas not accessible during the regular public tours.
- Expert guidance: The group will benefit from the undivided attention and expertise of the château’s knowledgeable guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Beverages?
According to the information provided, guests are not allowed to bring their own food or beverages during the guided tour and wine tasting experience at Château du Moulin-à-Vent. The tour and tasting are part of the package.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no specific dress code for the tour. Visitors can wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for a guided walk through the chateau and vineyards. The tour focuses on the experience, not on attire.
Do I Need to Make a Reservation in Advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended in advance for this guided tour. The listing states that visitors can "Reserve now & pay later" to secure their spot without an upfront payment.
Is There a Guided Tour in My Native Language?
The guided tour at Château du Moulin-à-Vent is available in both English and French. Visitors can choose their preferred language to learn about the château’s history and enjoy the wine tasting experience.
Can I Purchase Wine at the End of the Tour?
Yes, visitors can purchase wine at the end of the guided tour. The tour includes a wine tasting, and guests are welcome to purchase any of the château’s cuvées they enjoyed during the tasting.
Recap
A visit from Château Des Thorins to Château Du Moulin-À-Vent offers an enriching journey through Beaujolais’ wine region. Guests can enjoy the history and terroirs of both estates, culminating in a tasting that highlights the distinct characteristics of the region’s cuvées. This experience caters to wine enthusiasts and history lovers alike, providing a privileged viewpoint into the genesis of these exceptional wines.
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