Saint-Émilion is a renowned wine-growing region in the Bordeaux wine region-France. It is famous for producing high-quality red wines. The village of Saint-Émilion itself is a UNESCO world heritage site. The vineyards in Saint-Émilion are often associated with beautiful châteaux, which have been in operation for centuries, adding to the region's historical charm and appeal. The region is a popular tourist destination, attracting wine enthusiasts and travelers from around the world. Visitors can explore the vineyards, taste wines at the châteaux, and enjoy the picturesque beauty of the medieval village of Saint-Émilion.

Origin of Saint-Emilion vineyard     The origin of Saint-Emilion wines dates back to prehistoric times, and we have to jump back to 56 BC. Viticulture in this region began with the clearing of the Cumbis forest to plant the first vines, and grape varieties were grafted which were used around the city of Marseilles in the South of France called at the time Massilia. Massilia grape varieties were grafted onto local vines: Vitis Biturica. In 97 B.C. the Roman Emperor Domitius decided that the best way to eliminate competition to ensure the success of Italian wines was to uproot many vines, which completely blocked the vineyards of Saint-Emilion until the end of the 3rd century, or the decree of Roman Emperor Domitius is abolished by Probus. In the 5th century, the Roman Empire collapsed which allowed viticulture to pass into the hands of Christianity for its development because wine was a central element of the cult. Viticulture was introduced to this region by the Romans and intensified in the Middle Ages. The vineyards of the Saint-Emilion region benefit from their location on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela and, from the 11th century, many monasteries, hospices and churches were built in the region. In the 12th century the English government gave the special status of Jurisdiction, and it was when Eleanor of Aquitaine married Henri Plantagenêt who would become Henry II of England that the town of Saint-Emilion which was fortified was attached to the Crown of England.

Saint-Emilion labels , Saint-Emilion Grand Cru

The labels cover 9 communes:

The town of Saint-Emilion is a fortified village that has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999, along with the 8 villages in the Saint-Emilion area. UNESCO has recognised the exceptional character and universal significance of the internationally renowned Saint-Emilion vineyard. It is a thousand-year-old vineyard. UNESCO's aim is to add exceptional value to the World Heritage List and to preserve and pass on this heritage to future generations. Saint-Emilion stands out for its architectural heritage and an urban development that blends perfectly with its landscape while respecting its ancestral history. In order to protect the world-famous Saint-Emilion vineyards, any changes to the structure of the land or the plant cover must be approved by a commission made up of the INAO, the Architectes des Bâtiments de France and the Conseil des Vins de Saint-Emilion.

The Saint-Emilion Wine Council brings together 970 winegrowers for the 4 appellations : • Puisseguin-Saint-Emilion • Lussac-Saint-Emilion • Saint-Emilion • Saint-Emilion Grand Cru The Conseil des Vins de Saint-Emilion's aim being to promote the appellations through public actions, press relations in France and internationally and to provide its members with advice in all areas (wine regulations, brand protection, oenology, training... : Several Grands Châteaux have withdrawn from the Saint-Emilion classification, the châteaux : Angelus, Ausone, Croque Michotte and La Gaffelière had announced that they would not be entering the 2022 ranking.

List of Chateaux Saint-Emilion

Saint-Emilion Premier Cru Classé A Chateau Figeac Saint-Emilion Premier Grand Cru Classé A Chateau Pavie Saint-Emilion Premier Grand Cru Classé A	Saint-Emilion Premier Cru Classé A Château Cheval Blanc and Château Ausone, are no longer part of the classification.

Saint-Emilion Premier Grands Crus Classés

Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Classé

You want to insert or promote your business? contact us

Saint Emilion is world-famous for producing quality wine. You can take advantage of your visit to discover its Châteaux and vineyards to learn more about the different grape varieties and taste the local wines. (Here are just a few of the many châteaux).

What to do - What to visit

CHATEAU CHAUVIN

This estate, which has a long history dating back to the 19th century, is located on a picturesque site surrounded by vines. The vineyard covers around 15 hectares, mainly planted with grape varieties such as Merlot, Cabernet Franc and a small amount of Cabernet Sauvignon. The Château's wines are renowned for their elegance, complexity and balance.

CHATEAU AUSONE

This Château is one of the oldest vineyards in Bordeaux. Its history dates back to Roman times and its name comes from Ausonius, a Latin poet who owned land in the region in the 4th century. The estate's history has been handed down from generation to generation. It is situated on a steep hill to the east of the town of Saint Emilion and offers breathtaking views over the vineyards of the region. Château d'Ausone produces mainly high-quality red wines. The Château has been classified Grand Cru A, the highest distinction in the Saint Emilion wine classification system.

VIGNOBLE FRANCK DESPAGNE

In France, Franck DESPGANE is a renowned winegrower and the fourth generation of his family to cultivate vines in the Saint Emilion region. He attaches great importance to sustainable viticulture and quality winemaking. The wines from this vineyard are appreciated for their elegance, balance and expression of terroir. They have aromas of ripe fruit, spices and silky tannins. This estate offers visits and tastings of its wines and a tour of the cellar to discover the work of Franck DESPAGNE.

VIGNOBLE JEAN LOUIS TROCARD

Jean Louis TROCARD is a renowned winegrower and an emblematic figure in the region. He owns several wine estates in various Bordeaux appellations, including Saint Emilion, Pomerol, Lalande de Pomerol, Bordeaux Supérieur and Entre Deux Mers. This vineyard offers visits and tastings to discover the different wines produced by Jean Louis TROCARD and his expertise.
Saint Emilion is a town that has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its architecture and history, which you can discover at historic sites.

L'EGLISE COLLEGIALE

Known as the "Monolithic Collegiate Church", it is one of the most emblematic sites in the town of Saint Emilion, which has been on the UNECSO heritage list since 1999. This unique church dates back to the 12th century and was built by Benedictine monks. It is carved into the limestone rock from a single mass of stone. This exceptional church is very impressive; its exterior façade is relatively discreet, but once inside, visitors are amazed by the size and beauty of the space. It houses several chapels featuring frescoes from the Middle Ages and an underground crypt that can be explored and offers a glimpse into the religious history of the region.

THE URSULINE CONVENT

This convent in the town of Saint Emilion was founded in the 17th century and was once home to a female religious congregation dedicated to the education of young girls. The convent's architecture is typical of the French classical period, and includes a chapel, cells for the nuns, a refectory, an inner courtyard and other buildings necessary for the nuns' daily life. Today, the convent has been transformed into a luxury hotel while preserving its original architecture. You can discover the history of the convent while enjoying the hospitality and service of the hotel. You can also admire the magnificent gardens and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

LE PALAIS CARDIANAL

This historic monument is named after its illustrious owner, none other than Cardinal de Richelieu, an influential French statesman in the 17th century. The building, which was the Cardinal's residence, is characterised by its classical architecture, typical of the period. Today, the Palais is a renowned wine estate belonging to the Neipperg family. It is renowned for its quality wines, particularly those from the Saint Emilion Grand Cru appellation. You can visit the estate, explore the cellars and taste the wines produced on site. The Palais Cardinal is also surrounded by magnificent gardens, offering a peaceful setting.

ST EMILION'S MEDIEVAL CITY

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999, the medieval city is characterised by its narrow cobbled streets, stone houses, historic buildings and preserved medieval atmosphere. It is perched on a hill and surrounded by ramparts. It offers exceptional views of the surrounding vineyards. As you stroll through the medieval town, you'll discover half-timbered houses, picturesque squares, local craft shops, art galleries and a variety of restaurants and cafés. The medieval town of Saint Emilion is a historic and architectural gem that offers a visit into the past.

CHATEAU DE PRESSAC

This wine estate is classified as a Grand Cru Classé, which is a prestigious classification for the region's wines. Situated on a picturesque tourist site surrounded by vineyards, the Château offers panoramic views over the surrounding countryside. It dates back to the 18th century and covers around 42 hectares, mainly planted with grape varieties such as Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Carménère. The estate also offers tours and tastings for visitors interested in discovering its wines and history.

CHATEAU CHEVAL BLANC

This estate, which is classified as a Premier Grand Cru " A " has the highest classification of any vineyard in the region. It is renowned for producing exceptional wines, particularly reds made from a blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot grapes. The history of Château Blanc dates back to the 19th century. The estate was formed by the merger of Domaine de Bel Air and Château Cheval Blanc. Its vineyards cover around 37 hectares. Château Cheval Blanc is considered to be one of the finest producers not only in Saint Emilion, but also in the entire Bordeaux region. Its wines are highly sought after by wine collectors and enthusiasts the world over.

CHATEAU MAUVINON

This château has a long history dating back to the 18th century, when it was founded by the Mauvinon family. The estate has changed over time and now belongs to the Perse family, who also own other prestigious wine estates in Bordeaux. The Mauvinon vineyard covers around 28 hectares planted with grape varieties typical of the Bordeaux region. The Château produces a range of red wines, including its flagship "Le Château Mauvinon Grand Cru". You can visit the Château while tasting its various wines.

THE JACOBINS MONASTERY

This estate takes its name from the Dominican (or Jacobin) convent that once stood on this site. The vineyard is located on the slopes of Saint Emilion, on mainly clay-limestone soil. The vineyard covers around 20 hectares, with wines that are renowned for their finesse, elegance and balance, with aromas of ripe red fruit, spices, cedar and tobacco, with supple tannins and a long finish.

LES GRANDES MURAILLES

You can discover the great walls of Saint Emilion, which refer to an ancient fortified enclosure located in the town of Saint Emilion. These ramparts are located on the heights of the town and offer a panoramic view of the surrounding vineyards. The majestic limestone walls bear witness to Saint Emilion's rich history.

LA TOUR DU ROY

This tower, also known as La Tour du Roi (The King's Tower), is an emblematic monument in the town of Saint Emilion. It is one of the remains of the ancient fortified castle that dominated the medieval town. The tower is located at the top of the Saint Emilion hill, offering a panoramic view of the local vineyards. The Tour du Roy dates back to the 13th century and was once the castle's main keep. Built entirely of stone, it bears witness to the region's military history. You can explore the tower, climb to the top and immerse yourself in the history of Saint Emilion.

LE CLOITRE DES CORDELIERS

This historic site is also known as the Cour des Cordeliers. Once a Franciscan convent, it was founded in the 14th century. The Cordeliers were Franciscan monks who followed the rule of Saint Francis of Assisi, characterised by simplicity and poverty. The Cloître des Cordeliers is famous for its adjacent vineyard, which produces the sparkling wine known as " Crément de Bordeaux ". The Cordeliers monks were renowned for their winemaking expertise, and the vines have been maintained and cultivated to this day. You can take advantage of guided tours to discover the history of the site, which is a place steeped in history and spirituality, and learn about the production of Crément de Bordeaux.

UNDERGROUND TOUR OF SAINT EMILION

Saint Emilion is famous for its vineyards and renowned wine, but it is also a town rich in history and heritage, as you can see from the previous suggestions. However, part of its history is hidden underground, in a complex network of galleries and caverns carved into the limestone rock. You can therefore take guided tours of the underground city, which is an unforgettable experience for lovers of history, wine and discovery.

Gastronomy - Wine Tasting

You can enjoy the local cuisine by discovering restaurants and bistros that offer dishes accompanied by Saint Emilion wines: here are just a few of the many places to visit