Château Montlabert is hidden down a driveway of evergreen oaks on the road towards the Medieval city of Saint Emilion. This alleyway opens up to a perfect view of the elegant neoclassical chartreuse of this Grand Cru Classé. It’s a perfect example of classical Bordeaux architecture, visit in the spring and you’ll see the façade covered with beautiful wisteria.
The flower theme follows through the park, with two-hundred year old magnolia trees and a white rose garden, buzzing with bees from the chateau hives. From here stepping stones lead you across the water towards the ultra-modern cellar. A surprising contrast of old and new, tradition and modernity.
A love of nature and respect for the Saint-Emilion environment underlies the philosophy of the Castel family, owners of the estate since 2018. It drives their commitment to preserve and encourage biodiversity across the property. The 21 ha vineyard is certified sustainable by Terra Vitis and is divided up into individual plots, each with specific cover crops adapted to the diversity of clay and sandy soils.
Environmental design
The grapes arrive by gravity in the new wine cellar that is perfectly adapted to independently vinify each of these plots. 16 vats, some inverted stainless steel, others in brut cement, dominate the stunning wine making facility renovated by architect Olivier Chadebost for the 2019 vintage.
This redesign has reduced the environmental impact of wine making by 60% thanks to a clever marriage of architectural design and environmental responsibility. Bioclimatic features reduce energy consumption, cork on the walls acts as insulation, the underground barrel cellar naturally stabilizes at 15°C with air circulation up and down dual staircases designed to eliminate the need for air conditioning.
As well as a work of art and a place of work, the vat house is also a space to immerse guests in the world of wine. A ‘son and lumiere’ takes visitors on a voyage through Saint Emilion, the chateau and the wine making process. The cellar can be transformed for private events as can the light filled gallery of the harvest room above, open to beautiful views across the vines.
The cathedral like underground barrel cellar can welcome up to 500 guests. The barrel theme echoed in the dramatic ceramic chandeliers, especially designed for the space, all adding to the sense of a unique visitor experience.
Back in time
From here step back in to the 18th century chateau, a transition typical of Saint Emilion, that marries so well the past and the future. Experience chateau life with cooking classes in the kitchen and lunch in the elegant dining room. Or have lunch in the rose garden sharing a platter of fresh and local products amongst friends.
The Orangery and conservatory overlooking the rose garden, that once sheltered citrus trees during the winter, now welcomes guests for tastings and workshops.
The architectural diversity of the property and the flexibility of the spaces offers so many choices and different atmospheres to organise workshops, events, tastings, lunches dinners and so much more.
An elegant signature from vine to cellar to chateau, an echo of the nature of the wines of the property.
Video credits : ©Fakhry_Nader Photos credits : ©Château_Montlabert Author : Wendy Narby - Insider Tasting