After an extensive five-year renovation, this five-star property within its own vineyard is a serene setting for wine enthusiasts …
Located just a few miles from the world-renowned wine capital of Beaune, the newly opened hotel Château la Commaraine is Burgundy’s first luxury wine hotel, which dates from 1112 and has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2015. Oenophiles will know that the climate of Pommard is recognised globally for producing the finest and most powerful red wines in Burgundy, including the estate’s own Clos de la Commaraine.
The estate has had a storied past, most notably in 1787 when Thomas Jefferson ordered 124 bottles for his personal cellar, declaring the estate’s wine as “of excellent quality”. Confiscated during the French Revolution and later revived by Ulysse Jaboulet-Vercherre in the 20th century, Château la Commaraine became known not only for its winemaking excellence but for its array of visitors, among them Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, the late Queen Mother.
In 2017, the property was purchased by Denise Dupré and Mark Nunnelly of Champagne Hospitality, and since then they have restored it carefully. The new hotel features 37 rooms and suites, two restaurant offerings led by head chef Jérôme Rioux, a spa with myBlend treatments, a fitness centre and an interesting hair spa by Flora Lab Paris. The estate also has an 18-metre heated outdoor pool overlooking the vines and its own Cuverie built within the château, along with panoramic terraces offering sweeping vineyard views. In addition, there’s a private four-bedroom residence with its own exclusive tasting room to rent. The hotel bar is located within an original 14th-century tower overlooking the vineyards while the bistro, Le Clos, is the hub offering superb wines and views.
The hotel’s design combines Burgundian traditions and stonework with contemporary interiors by Affine Design Studio, featuring intricate wood panelling and light tones throughout. The restoration of original features was overseen by architect Richard Martinet, who utilised the classic aesthetic of Burgundy’s white stone in the facade to blend with the surrounding landscape.
Renowned for its immersive experiences – from bespoke tastings, visits to the estate’s Cuverie, sunrise hot air balloon excursions and cycling through picturesque wine villages – as a working estate and winery it provides a rare insight into distinctive winemaking traditions.
Need to know: Overnight stays start from €610. @chateaulacommaraine
