Maison Champy
Beaune, France
There's 'historic', and then there's Maison Champy: an oenological anthology of an estate bursting at the seams with more than 300 years of winemaking heritage, sprawling cellars that were once part of a 15th-century convent, and even a couple of highly illustrious influencers adding to its lore. Not only did the Champy family collaborate with Louis Pasteur on research for his landmark 1866 work Études sur le Vin – 'Studies on Wine' – but the winery itself, tucked into the centre of medieval Beaune, was designed with a little help from the inimitable Gustave Eiffel, the man behind Paris' eponymous tower. Tours take in both the 1890 cuverie – a curious contradiction of traditional stone façade and industrial, iron-columned interior – and the rough-hewn vaults below, with tastings spanning five or six of the maison's most characterful wines (keep an eye out for Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru, a prestigious chardonnay born on one of Burgundy's most storied slopes). Prefer to snack as you sip? Indulge in one of the estate's mâchon experiences, which pair its signature pours with a selection of local cheeses and charcuterie.
Key Information
- Opening times: Tue – Sat, 10am-12.30pm, 2-6pm
- Signature wine: Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru
- Wines produced: Red and white
- Grape varieties: Chardonnay, pinot noir
- Time from airport: 2 hours from Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport
- Visit Maison Champy's website
Location
5 Rue du Grenier À Sel, , Beaune, 21200
