Château de La Chaize, established in 1676, stands as a monumental figure in French viticulture, weaving centuries of history into its vines. Recognized as a French national historical monument, the estate is a beacon of Beaujolais’ winemaking legacy. The château itself is a masterpiece, its timeless architecture a testament to the cultural richness of southern Burgundy.

Owned and meticulously managed by the Gruy family, the estate spans an impressive 450 hectares, making it the largest in Beaujolais. Of this, 150 hectares are dedicated to vineyards, spread across appellations such as Brouilly, Côte de Brouilly, Fleurie, and Morgon. This parcel-based cultivation method reflects the estate’s commitment to preserving the unique identity of each terroir, producing wines of extraordinary character.

Commitment to Sustainability

Château de La Chaize is not merely preserving its heritage; it is reshaping the future of winemaking through sustainability. In 2022, the estate achieved organic certification, underscoring its dedication to environmentally friendly practices. Its innovative approach incorporates geothermal and solar energy, reducing reliance on non-renewable resources, while electric vehicles and eco-grazing by sheep further enhance the estate’s sustainability credentials.

Aiming for carbon neutrality and zero waste, the estate exemplifies modern environmental stewardship. These efforts reflect a harmonious balance between tradition and innovation, ensuring that the château’s legacy continues for generations while respecting the natural environment that sustains it.

A Pioneer in Winemaking Techniques

The château’s wine cellar, constructed in 1771, is the longest in Beaujolais, offering a controlled environment ideal for aging wines to perfection. Here, tradition meets modernity. Château de La Chaize employs cutting-edge winemaking technologies such as gravity-fed systems, which preserve the integrity of the fruit by minimizing mechanical interference during processing.

The estate also embraces low-intervention vinification techniques and hand-harvesting, ensuring that each grape reaches its potential without undue alteration. These practices allow the wines to fully express the unique qualities of the Brouilly, Côte de Brouilly, Fleurie, and Morgon terroirs, earning them accolades from wine connoisseurs worldwide.

An Estate Rooted in Tradition

Despite its forward-thinking ethos, Château de La Chaize remains deeply rooted in its traditions. Since 2017, the Gruy family nurtures the estate, maintaining its reputation as a producer of high-quality wines that honor the heritage of Beaujolais. The château’s philosophy revolves around respect for the land, a principle that resonates in every bottle produced.

Visitors to the estate are welcomed into a world where history and craftsmanship converge. Exclusive tours offer an intimate glimpse into the winemaking process, from vine to bottle, while the historic grounds provide a picturesque backdrop for wine tastings.

Exceptional Wines

At the heart of Château de La Chaize is its collection of wines, each a reflection of the estate’s terroir and dedication to excellence. The parcel-based approach to cultivation ensures that every wine embodies the distinct characteristics of its origin. Whether it is the vibrant fruitiness of a Brouilly or the complex depth of a Côte de Brouilly, each wine tells a story of meticulous care and artistry.

The estate’s commitment to organic practices enhances the purity of its wines, delivering flavors that are both authentic and captivating. With a focus on quality over quantity, Château de La Chaize produces wines that are celebrated not only for their taste but also for their integrity.

A Vision for the Future

Château de La Chaize is more than a historical estate; it is a vision for the future of sustainable viticulture. Its mission to restore the estate to its former glory is complemented by its efforts to lead by example in environmental responsibility. Through its innovative practices and unwavering dedication to quality, the château is setting a new standard for the wine industry.

Experiencing Château de La Chaize

For wine enthusiasts, a visit to Château de La Chaize is a journey into the heart of Beaujolais. The estate offers curated experiences that showcase its rich history, innovative practices, and exceptional wines. Guests can explore the sprawling vineyards, tour the historic wine cellar, and indulge in tastings that highlight the unique qualities of each vintage.

Château de La Chaize invites visitors to not only savor its wines but also to connect with its story—a narrative of heritage, innovation, and sustainability.

To learn more about estate, visit https://www.chateaudelachaize.fr/en_US/