History Balestard la Tonnelle
This magnificent property of 10.6 hectares (26.5 acres) is situated above Saint-Emilion, on the limestone-clay plateau. The Chateau is located just a half a mile from the gates of the medieval village, and the name "Balestard" means chanoine or religious canon of the Jurisdiction of Saint-Emilion, and "Tonnelle" represents the ancient 15th century watch tower that still stands in the middle of the vineyard and is the emblem of the estate.
The creation of this vineyard dates from the 15th century. During that time, François Villon praised the qualities of the wine from Château Balestard la Tonnelle in a poem, which can be seen on the label.
Long-time held by the Berthauts-Couture family, Château Balestard la Tonnelle was sold in 1923 to Mr Berthon, grandfather of Jacques Capdemourlin, the current owner and former student of Emile Peynaud, oenologist at the Faculté d'Oenologie in Bordeaux.
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Villon's poem
Virgin Mary, gentle deity,
Save me a place in sweet heaven:
Never shall I have joy nor gaiety
Here below, since is forbidden
to drink the divine nectar
Whose name is Balestard,
Except in this life for the wealthy.
As I am so poor and needy,
If truly on high this wine is in plenty,
Come, soft death, I do not fear thee,
Bring me up there among the fortunate
Who can this vintage taste. |
François Villon
(1421-1485) |
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