Beaune Castle

It might not look like it at first glance, but the building in front of you is one of Beaune’s most iconic landmarks: its château. Take a moment to stroll up and down this street and you’ll get a better view—especially of the oldest section at the far end, where the high stone walls, round towers and heavy gate reveal its medieval roots. The château was originally built to defend the town during a time when Burgundy was at the height of its power but also facing rising threats. Construction began in 1443—the very same year the Hospices de Beaune were founded by Chancellor Nicolas Rolin. The Hundred Years’ War was still underway, and towns like Beaune had to protect themselves from roaming armies and sudden attacks. This fortress, known then as the “Château-Fort,” played a crucial role in the town’s defences, with ramparts, watchtowers and even a moat. But as warfare changed and city walls became less relevant, the château gradually lost its military purpose. By the 17th century, it was passing from one owner to another—until 1820, when it began a whole new life. That year, Bouchard Père & Fils, a Burgundy wine merchant established in the early 18th century, bought the château and transformed it into the heart of their operations. The old dungeons became wine cellars. The underground galleries, carved into the bedrock, were turned into ideal storage for ageing bottles—some of which, dating back to the 1800s, are still lying there today. Today, the Château de Beaune is a working winery, a place of heritage, and a symbol of Burgundy’s passion for wine. It’s the headquarters of the Bouchard house, home to an extraordinary collection of vintages, and welcomes visitors who want to dive into the rich world of Burgundy winemaking.