Château de Montauzan, Medieval castle in Lacenas, France
Château de Montauzan is a castle with an active wine estate in Lacenas, shaped by medieval structures and later additions. The grounds include a corner tower with a conical roof, a golden stone winery building from 1786, and various service buildings arranged around a courtyard.
The Bessie family acquired the estate in the late 16th century and established it as a residence with active management. The Germain family took over in 1745 and changed their surname to Germain de Montauzan to reflect their connection to the place.
The estate carries the name of a prominent wine property in the Beaujolais region and continues to reflect the deep connection between the castle and winemaking traditions. Visitors notice this relationship at every turn, from the cellars to the stone buildings themselves.
The castle operates an active wine estate and welcomes visits by appointment to explore the cellars and taste wines. Plan ahead and contact in advance, as tours are available only by prior arrangement and hours follow the winery's schedule.
A 17th-century well with original ironwork sits in the courtyard, showing how craftsmanship spanned different construction periods. This piece reveals something about the daily life and practical needs of those who lived here across generations.
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