November wine weekends at La Maison du Chateau, Burgundy
For an indulgent break this autumn, escape to La Maison du Chateau, a beautiful 18th Century Manor House between Chablis and Beaune. Offering informal and relaxed long-weekend, Thursday - Monday (dates either: 4th - 8th Nov or 8th - 12th Nov 2012) breaks that combine wine tastings, delicious food and local culture, all within easy reach of London due to the excellent rail links (just 1 hour from Paris by TGV).
Nestled on the edge of the quiet yet picturesque village of Cry-sur-Armancon, with its beautiful church, historic bridge and quintessentially french tree lined river, there is a hint of magic as you enter the Gates of La Maison du Chateau. Set in 24 acres of idyllic parkland one cannot help but fall for the authentic, rustic charms of La Maison - homely, comfortable and elegant, the perfect backdrop to enjoy a weekend of fine wine, excellent food and good company. Boasting nine en suite bedrooms (double or twin), a beautiful Grand Salon, a talented, charming cook who ensures every guest's need is catered for, an interesting wine cellar, outdoor pool, tennis court, river and rowing boat. One would be forgiven for never wanting to leave.
The wine weekends are hosted by local wine expert Brendan Moore. An English speaker with over 20 years of experience having worked alongside the famous wine houses as well as some of the lesser known growers of Burgundy, Brendan is a repository of knowledge and will bring the areas rich wine history to life. Engaging, well informed and able to open doors to tasting opportunities in cellars full of excellent, unusual wine at exceptional prices as well as organising tastings in Chablis, St Bris Le Vineux, where guests will be welcomed by the 5th generation of winemakers and given the rare opportunity to explore ancient family cellars; trips to admire the Grand Cru Montrachet and neighbours in Beane, and a Cellar visit and wine tasting in Puligny Montrachet, who have some of the greatest white wines in the world.
After a fulfilling day of wine touring and tasting guests will be welcomed back to a homemade tea, some time to relax and enjoy the grounds before settling down to a spoiling four course meal carefully paired with a selection of wines and complimented by an often lively discussion. Evenings can be whiled away with after dinner coffee and a digestif in front of the roaring log fire.
Autumn is a beautiful season to visit La Maison du Chateau with its vibrant colours and sunny crisp days. Although ultimately a celebration of wine and food the weekend also provides guests with the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful area - just a short stroll from the gates one can enjoy beautiful walks and bicycle rides along the canal. Woven within the wine tastings are visits to cultural gems and UNESCO world heritage sites including the eternal hill of Vezelay - a hilltop site that has been an important religious centre for over a thousand years and the Monastery of Fontenay, founded by St Bernard in 1118.
With the unspoilt landscape, vineyards a hive of activity, and a wealth of culture on your doorstep, La Maison du Chateau, with all it offers guests, is a special treat for wine lovers and gourmands.
Lead in price for 4 night weekend (Full board and tasting tours included): £765 per person.
Transport Recommendations - Eurostar London to Paris and then TGV Paris to Montbard.
Taxi service from Montbard to La Maison du Chateau.
For further information on La Maison du Chateau, visit lamaisonduchateau.co.uk.
