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Château Coutet: A Legacy of Saint-Émilion Grand Cru

Discover Château Coutet, a family-owned Saint-Émilion Grand Cru estate with centuries of history, committed to organic winemaking and offering authentic tours and tastings.

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Nestled in the heart of Saint-Émilion, Château Coutet stands as a testament to centuries of winemaking tradition. This family-owned estate, with roots tracing back to the 15th century, offers visitors an authentic glimpse into the world of organic viticulture. The David Beaulieu family has passionately managed the vineyard for generations, producing exceptional Saint-Émilion Grand Cru wines while respecting the environment. Explore the picturesque vineyards, learn about their chemical-free techniques, and savor the fruits of their labor with a tasting. With its rich history, commitment to sustainability, and warm hospitality, Château Coutet provides a memorable and insightful experience for wine enthusiasts seeking a genuine connection to the land and its produce. The estate's dedication to preserving its ecosystem makes it a unique and enriching destination.

A brief summary to Château Coutet

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Book your visit in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability for tours and tastings.
  • Consider the 'discovery' walking tour or buggy tour for a more in-depth exploration of the vineyards and winemaking process.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as tours involve walking through the vineyards.
  • Take advantage of the opportunity to purchase wines directly from the estate, as they may not be widely available elsewhere.
  • Combine your visit to Château Coutet with a trip to the nearby medieval town of Saint-Émilion for a complete cultural and wine-tasting experience.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From the center of Saint-Émilion, follow the D245 towards Saint-Christophe-des-Bardes. After approximately 2 kilometers, turn left onto Route du Milieu (D121E3). Château Coutet will be on your right after about 1.5 kilometers. Parking is available on-site.

  • Public Transport

    From the Saint-Émilion train station, you can take bus line 4617 or 4612 towards Château Coutet. Get off at the 'Pourret' bus stop, which is approximately a 15-minute walk (1.2km) from the Château. From the bus stop, walk south-west, then turn left onto Route du Milieu. The Château will be on your right. A single bus fare is approximately €2.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from the center of Saint-Émilion to Château Coutet will cost approximately €15-€20. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Château Coutet

Château Coutet, a jewel among the historic wines of Saint-Émilion, has been family-owned for over four centuries. Magnificently situated atop the limestone plateau, the estate offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the world of Saint-Émilion Grand Cru winemaking. The history of Château Coutet stretches back to the 15th century when Sieur François Coutet gave the estate its name. However, its origins trace back even further, with evidence suggesting Roman occupation in the area, known then as 'Domaine de Francs'. In 1601, the vineyard became the property of Thomas d'Augereau, the mayor of Libourne, solidifying the estate's place in the region's history. For at least 400 years, Château Coutet has been intimately linked to the David Beaulieu family, passed down from generation to generation. Their dedication has always been to produce a great Saint-Émilion wine, a tradition they continue to uphold today. Édouard Féret, in his 1874 classification of wines, noted the estate's fortunate position on the hillsides of Saint-Émilion, overlooking the Dordogne valley. He praised the picturesque sites and the land's suitability for vines, leading to the production of mellow wines with remarkable bouquets. Today, three generations of the David Beaulieu family live on the property, with Alain, his nephew Adrien, and his son Matthieu managing the Château. The family context creates a dynamic, traditional, and friendly atmosphere for visitors. The estate spans 16 hectares, planted with Merlot (60%), Cabernet Franc (30%), Cabernet Sauvignon (3%), and Malbec (7%) vines. The average age of the vines is 38 years, contributing to the complexity and depth of the wines. What sets Château Coutet apart is its unwavering commitment to organic winemaking. The estate has implemented chemical-free techniques in their vineyard, creating a thriving ecosystem. The agronomy school of Bordeaux analyzes the microbiological life within the vineyard, using temperature sensors to monitor the environment. This dedication to sustainability allows wild tulips, orchids, and local wildlife to flourish in harmony with the vines. The winemaking process at Château Coutet involves manual harvesting and fermentation in stainless steel tanks. The wine is then aged in a combination of barrels (60% in one-wine barrels or older, 20% in new barrels) and tanks (20%). The annual average production is 55,000 bottles (412 hectolitres). Château Coutet offers a range of tours and tastings to visitors, providing an insightful and authentic experience. You can explore the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and, of course, sample the estate's exceptional wines. The family's passion for nature, their vines, and their history shines through in every aspect of the visit. The microclimate of the Mediterranean belt and the presence of tritons and shrimps attract numerous visitors, curious to learn more about the unique environment. Visits are available by appointment and include a traditional walking tour (€9 per person for a regular tour, €14 for a private tour), a 'discovery' walking tour (€40 per person), and buggy tours (€50 per person for a simple 1 hour 15 minutes tour, €120 per person for a full 2 hour tour). The minimum price for a bottle of wine is €30. Château Coutet's wines are sold in various countries, including Germany, Belgium, China, Denmark, the United States, France, Hong Kong, Japan, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Malta, Norway, Sweden and India. The estate's dedication to quality and sustainability has earned it recognition as a 'Best of Wine Tourism' destination and certification in organic farming with the European organic label. A visit to Château Coutet is more than just a wine tasting; it's an immersion into a world where tradition, family, and respect for the environment come together to create exceptional wines. It's an opportunity to connect with the land, learn about the history of Saint-Émilion, and savor the fruits of a centuries-old legacy. Whether you are a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply curious about the world of winemaking, Château Coutet offers an enriching and unforgettable experience. The warm hospitality of the David Beaulieu family, combined with the beauty of the vineyards and the exceptional quality of the wines, makes it a must-visit destination in Saint-Émilion. Château Coutet is not just a winery; it's a living testament to the enduring power of tradition, the importance of sustainability, and the passion of a family dedicated to crafting exceptional Saint-Émilion Grand Cru wines. It's a place where history, nature, and the art of winemaking come together to create a truly unforgettable experience.

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