Located on the edge of the village of Saint-Emilion, this Classified Great Growth since 1955 has a vineyard of 10 hectares, on top of the limestone plateau. Château Balestard La Tonnelle is a family-run business, owned by family Capdemourlin, wine-growers since 1647. With its noble terroir, the estate produces elegant red wines with exceptional aromatic complexity.
The year 2019 was a milestone for the property, with the construction of a brand new bioclimatic building containing the high-tech vat room and barrel storehouse, designed by the architect Claude Marty. It is now possible to enjoy a tasting on the magnificent panoramic rooftop balcony, with a 360° view over the village of Saint-Emilion.
Château Balestard La Tonnelle history started in medieval times with a canon of the Chapter of Saint-Emilion called Balestard, a well-known music composer and wine producer, owner of the estate in the XVth century. Family Balestard lived and prospered here until 1835. Two other noble families have followed, the family Du Courrech de Raquine and the family Bertauts-Couture.
In 1923, Jacques Capdemourlin's grandfather bought the estate, and when Jacques himself became the owner in 1974, he decided to combine his passion for wine & architecture by modernizing the estate without impairing its identity.
Family Capdemourlin is one of the oldest of Saint-Emilion. The 12th (Jacques) and 13th generation (Thierry and François) are currently running the estate. Vignobles Capdemourlin are composed of :
- Le Château Balestard La Tonnelle, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Classé
- Le Château Cap de Mourlin, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Classé
- Le Château Roudier, Montagne Saint-Emilion
