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Château du Moulin-à-Vent: A Beaujolais Icon

Discover the legacy of Château du Moulin-à-Vent, a historic Beaujolais estate crafting age-worthy Gamay wines since 1732, with immersive tours and tastings in the heart of the Moulin-à-Vent appellation.

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Château du Moulin-à-Vent, a prestigious estate in the heart of the Moulin-à-Vent appellation, has been a benchmark of Beaujolais winemaking since 1732. Known for producing age-worthy Gamay wines, often called the 'King of Beaujolais,' the Château offers visitors an immersive experience into its rich history and terroir. Explore the vineyards, discover the ancient cellars, and taste a selection of their exceptional wines. The estate's commitment to organic practices and meticulous winemaking ensures a memorable visit for wine enthusiasts and casual tourists alike. Nestled among the vines, the estate features a charming chapel, adding to the picturesque setting. A visit promises a deep dive into the art of winemaking and the unique characteristics of the Moulin-à-Vent appellation, making it a must-see destination in the Beaujolais region.

A brief summary to Château du Moulin-à-Vent

  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Book your tour and tasting in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and avoid disappointment.
  • Consider visiting during the harvest season (September/October) to witness the winemaking process firsthand.
  • Take time to explore the village of Romanèche-Thorins and its surrounding vineyards for a complete Beaujolais experience.
  • Check the Château's website for special events, such as vertical tastings or food and wine pairings.
  • If purchasing wine, inquire about shipping options to your home country, as availability may be limited.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the Romanèche-Thorins train station, the Château du Moulin-à-Vent is approximately a 20-minute walk (1.5km). Exit the station and follow signs towards the village center ('Les Thorins'). The route is mostly flat and well-signposted. Alternatively, taxis are sometimes available at the station, but pre-booking is highly recommended, especially outside of peak hours. A taxi ride would cost approximately €15-€20.

  • Driving

    If driving from Mâcon, take the A6 motorway and exit at Belleville-sur-Saône. Follow the D37 towards Romanèche-Thorins. Once in Romanèche-Thorins, follow the signs to 'Les Thorins'. The Château du Moulin-à-Vent is located at 4 Les Thorins. Limited free parking is available on-site. Be aware that parking can be crowded during peak season or special events.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From nearby towns like Belleville-en-Beaujolais or Mâcon, a taxi or ride-sharing service is a convenient option. Expect to pay around €30-€40 for a taxi from Belleville-en-Beaujolais and €40-€60 from Mâcon. Ride-sharing services may be less readily available in this rural area, so pre-booking a taxi is advisable. Ensure the driver knows the specific address: 4 Les Thorins, 71570 Romanèche-Thorins.

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Discover more about Château du Moulin-à-Vent

Château du Moulin-à-Vent, a name synonymous with Beaujolais excellence, has stood as a sentinel of quality winemaking since 1732. Located in Romanèche-Thorins, at the heart of the Moulin-à-Vent appellation, this historic estate offers visitors a captivating journey through centuries of tradition and innovation. The Château derives its name from the 300-year-old stone windmill perched atop the hill of Les Thorins, a local landmark that has become an emblem of the region. This iconic windmill, classified as a historical monument, watches over the vineyards, a silent witness to the passage of time and the evolution of winemaking practices. The estate's history is deeply intertwined with the story of Beaujolais itself. Originally known as Château des Thorins, the estate gained prominence in the 17th century when its wines were introduced to the court of King Louis XIV, who declared them fit for the royal table. This royal endorsement cemented the reputation of the wines and the estate's place in French winemaking history. Today, Château du Moulin-à-Vent continues to uphold its legacy of excellence. The estate spans 30 hectares of vineyards, exclusively within the Moulin-à-Vent appellation, known for its unique granite soils and ideal growing conditions for the Gamay grape. These old vines, some dating back decades, yield small quantities of exceptional fruit, the foundation for the estate's renowned wines. The winemaking philosophy at Château du Moulin-à-Vent is a blend of tradition and innovation. The estate is committed to organic practices, working the soil and employing organic treatments to ensure the health and vitality of the vines. Grapes are hand-harvested and meticulously sorted, ensuring that only the finest fruit makes its way into the cellar. Visitors to Château du Moulin-à-Vent are invited to explore the estate's rich history and terroir through a variety of immersive experiences. Guided tours offer insights into the winemaking process, from the vineyards to the cellars. Guests can wander through the ancient vaulted cellars, dating back to the 16th century, and witness the aging process firsthand. The tours often include a visit to the 'Clos de Londres', the estate's iconic vineyard, providing panoramic views of the appellation. The highlight of any visit to Château du Moulin-à-Vent is, of course, the wine tasting. The estate offers a range of tasting options, from introductory sessions to in-depth explorations of their single-vineyard selections. Guests can sample the flagship cuvée, Château du Moulin-à-Vent, as well as other exceptional wines that showcase the diversity and complexity of the terroir. Tastings are often held in the estate's charming chapel, a former crossroads in the hamlet of Thorins, adding a touch of history and ambiance to the experience. Beyond the vineyards and cellars, Château du Moulin-à-Vent offers a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the region. The estate's location in Romanèche-Thorins provides easy access to other attractions in the Beaujolais and Mâconnais regions. Visitors can explore the nearby Hameau Duboeuf, a wine-themed amusement park, or discover the charming villages and rolling hills that define the landscape. A visit to Château du Moulin-à-Vent is more than just a wine tasting; it's an immersion into the history, culture, and passion that define this iconic Beaujolais estate. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious traveler, a trip to Château du Moulin-à-Vent promises an unforgettable experience.

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