Château de Cheylus

Discover the Château de Cheylus: A Hidden Gem in Flaviac

Nestled between Le Pouzin and Privas, the Château de Cheylus stands as a picturesque castle with its stone walls, steeped in history for over 400 years. This hidden gem is surrounded by vineyards, lovingly cultivated by the unconventional winemaker, Gerben Tonkens. Today, the Domaine de Cheylus spans 30 hectares, with three-quarters of the estate converted to organic agriculture.

A Winemaking Haven

Gerben Tonkens has dedicated himself to producing exceptional wines at the Domaine de Cheylus. With approximately 150,000 bottles produced annually, 90% of which are exported to countries such as the Netherlands, Scandinavia, Japan, and the United States, this winery has gained recognition worldwide.

A Taste of Excellence

The Domaine de Cheylus offers a delightful selection of wines, showcasing the unique terroir of the Rhône Valley. Among their offerings are two colors of wine and four distinct cuvées. The Blanc, a viognier, is harvested when perfectly ripe, expressing fruity notes of apricot and peach, with a touch of oak aging. The Grenache cuvée is an easy-drinking red wine that entices you to open a second bottle, bursting with fruit flavors. The Syrah, sourced from young vines, exhibits the classic characteristics of Rhône Valley syrahs, with hints of blackcurrant and blackberries. Lastly, the cuvée de sélection de parcelles, aged for fourteen months in oak barrels, is a truly exquisite wine.

A Transformation of Tradition

Gerben Tonkens, originally from the Netherlands, took over the Château de Cheylus in 1993, breathing new life into the estate. What was once a small, traditional Ardèche farm with vineyards, cherry and apricot trees, and cattle, has been transformed into a specialized winery. Gerben's vision was to focus on producing exceptional wines and building a state-of-the-art cellar. The terroir, characterized by granite, micaschist, and geological faults, proved ideal for growing Syrah and Viognier grapes. Today, the vineyards flourish with these varieties, along with a touch of Marsanne.

Explore the Château de Cheylus

Visitors to the Château de Cheylus can immerse themselves in the rich history and architectural beauty of the castle. The stone walls, dating back centuries, exude a sense of grandeur and charm. Take a leisurely stroll through the vineyards, marveling at the rows of meticulously tended vines. The winery itself offers guided tours, where you can learn about the winemaking process and sample their exquisite wines.

When to Visit

The best time to visit the Château de Cheylus is during the harvest season, typically from September to October. Witness the vineyards come alive with activity as the grapes are hand-picked and transformed into the exceptional wines that have put this winery on the map. The surrounding area of Flaviac also offers a wealth of natural beauty and cultural attractions, making it an ideal destination for wine enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Conclusion

The Château de Cheylus in Flaviac is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique experience. From its rich history and architectural beauty to the exceptional wines produced by Gerben Tonkens, this winery is a must-visit destination for wine lovers. Immerse yourself in the charm of the castle, explore the vineyards, and indulge in the flavors of the Rhône Valley. Plan your visit to the Château de Cheylus and discover the magic of this enchanting place.