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Château de la Gardine: A Legacy of Wine in Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Discover the legacy of Rhône Valley winemaking at Château de la Gardine, where tradition meets terroir in every sip of their acclaimed Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Rasteau, and Lirac wines.

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Château de la Gardine, a family-run winery since 1945, offers a captivating glimpse into the world of Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines. With roots tracing back to the 18th century, the Brunel family has cultivated a legacy of excellence, producing wines that reflect the region's unique terroir. Visitors can explore the estate's vineyards, housed in an 18th-century building, and indulge in guided tastings of their acclaimed Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Rasteau, and Lirac wines. The estate is known for its distinctive bottle, embossed with the papal tiara and keys of Saint Peter, a nod to the region's papal history. With its panoramic views, historic cellars, and commitment to quality, Château de la Gardine provides an immersive and memorable wine-tasting experience.

A brief summary to Château de la Gardine

  • Monday 9 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-6 pm
  • Friday 9 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6:30 pm

Local tips

  • Book your wine tasting in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and a personalized experience.
  • Take advantage of the panoramic views from the tasting cellar and terrace, offering stunning vistas of the vineyards and the Rhône Valley.
  • Explore the estate's unique bottle design, embossed with the papal tiara and keys of Saint Peter, a symbol of the region's rich history.
  • Consider purchasing a bottle of Château de la Gardine's Châteauneuf-du-Pape as a souvenir, a perfect reminder of your visit to this iconic winery.
  • Check the estate's website for upcoming events, such as music festivals and harvest celebrations, for a unique cultural experience.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From the center of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, follow the D68 (Route de Roquemaure) west, towards Roquemaure. Château de la Gardine is located directly on this road, approximately 2 kilometers outside of the village center. Look for signs indicating the Château. Parking is available on-site. Note that parking can be limited during peak season.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services (like Uber) are available in the Châteauneuf-du-Pape area. A taxi from the village center to Château de la Gardine will cost approximately €15-€25, depending on traffic and availability. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Public Transport

    While there isn't a direct bus stop at Château de la Gardine, the closest bus stop is in the center of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. From Avignon, take the Zou! bus line 902 to Châteauneuf-du-Pape. From the village center, it's approximately a 2 kilometer walk along the D68 (Route de Roquemaure) to the Château. Consider a taxi or ride-sharing service for the final leg if you prefer not to walk. Bus fare from Avignon to Châteauneuf-du-Pape is approximately €3.

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Discover more about Château de la Gardine

Nestled in the heart of the Rhône Valley, Château de la Gardine stands as a testament to the rich history and enduring traditions of Châteauneuf-du-Pape winemaking. This family-owned estate, with its roots stretching back to the 18th century, has been producing exceptional wines for generations, captivating wine enthusiasts with its commitment to quality and its deep connection to the land. The story of Château de la Gardine is intertwined with the history of the Brunel family, who have been making wines in the Southern Rhône Valley since 1670. However, their journey in Châteauneuf-du-Pape began in 1945 when Gaston Brunel acquired the estate, which at the time was in disrepair following World War II. Undeterred, Gaston embarked on an ambitious renovation project, investing heavily in the vineyards and the winery, laying the foundation for the estate's future success. Today, Château de la Gardine encompasses 52 hectares of meticulously cultivated vineyards, benefiting from the region's unique terroir. The vines thrive in the area's stony soil, basking in the warm Mediterranean sunshine and caressed by the cooling Mistral winds. This combination of factors contributes to the production of grapes with exceptional concentration and complexity, which are then transformed into wines of remarkable character. The estate's commitment to quality extends to every aspect of the winemaking process. The Brunel family employs sustainable viticultural practices, prioritizing the health of the soil and the biodiversity of the surrounding environment. In the cellar, traditional techniques are combined with modern technology to ensure that the wines retain their natural flavors and aromas. One of the most distinctive features of Château de la Gardine is its iconic bottle, a unique design that has become synonymous with the estate. The asymmetrical, mouth-blown glass bottle is embossed with the Châteauneuf-du-Pape emblem of a papal tiara placed above the keys of Saint Peter, a tribute to the region's papal history. This elegant and recognizable bottle adds a touch of prestige to the wines, making them a perfect addition to any dinner table. Visitors to Château de la Gardine are invited to immerse themselves in the world of wine through guided tours and tastings. The estate's tasting cellar, housed in an 18th-century building, offers panoramic views of the vineyards, providing a stunning backdrop for a memorable wine-tasting experience. Knowledgeable staff guide guests through a selection of the estate's acclaimed wines, highlighting the diversity of the appellations and the richness of the terroirs. The tasting experience typically includes a presentation of the wine-growing region and the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation, a journey through the history of the estate, and a visit to the cellar. Guests have the opportunity to sample at least five wines, adapted to their preferences and availability. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, creating a relaxed and enjoyable setting for discovering the excellence of Château de la Gardine's wines. Château de la Gardine produces a range of wines, including the flagship Châteauneuf-du-Pape, as well as Rasteau and Lirac. The Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines are known for their complexity, richness, and elegance, showcasing the unique characteristics of the Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre grapes. The Rasteau wines are full-bodied and powerful, while the Lirac wines are fruity and aromatic. Beyond its commitment to quality winemaking, Château de la Gardine is also dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of the Rhône Valley. The estate hosts various events throughout the year, including music festivals and celebrations of local traditions. These events provide visitors with a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant culture of the region and to connect with the people who are passionate about preserving its legacy. Whether you are a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious traveler seeking an authentic cultural experience, Château de la Gardine offers a captivating journey into the world of Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines. From its historic cellars to its panoramic vineyards, this family-owned estate embodies the spirit of the Rhône Valley, inviting visitors to savor the flavors of the region and to discover the passion that goes into every bottle.

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