The History of Our Castle Near Lyon

Nestled in the heart of the Beaujolais region, amid the wooded hills and vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see in the village of Blacé, the Château de Champ-Renard is not only a former fortified house but also an active winery.

Long closed to the public, the estate now offers historical tours, tastings of its wines, and accommodations at the château, as well as customized private event packages for receptions and corporate events.

We invite you to discover the unique history of our castle near Lyon and how it has evolved over the centuries.

Champ-Renard: From Fortified Castle to Beaujolais Winery

Château du Rhône Built in the heart of the Middle Ages, Champ-Renard boasts a particularly rich history where local and broader historical events intertwine. When it was built by the Gléteins of Jarnioux around 1250—before being entrusted to the lords of Beaujeu in 1284—the castle occupied a defensive position.

Located 40 km northwest of Lyon, it defended the territory against enemies approaching from the south and east. At that time, it had a keep, as well as a moat and a drawbridge, making it a true fortified castle.

The estate would have several successive owners over the centuries, the most famous of whom was undoubtedly Jean Agnot, a squire to the king who went down in history for bravely rescuing the knight Bayard during the Battle of Garigliano. Jean Agnot’s descendants would live on the estate for more than two centuries.

In 1765, the château became a vineyard at the initiative of its new owner, the Marquis d’Espinay de Laye. The future U.S. President Thomas Jefferson was received by the marquis in his capacity as U.S. ambassador. A great wine lover, Jefferson was passing through the region and was particularly interested in cultivation and production techniques, which he hoped to import to America.

Finally, until the early 19th century, high, middle, and low courts were held at the castle, which made it possible to settle disputes among the village residents.

Subsequently, the estate became the family home or vacation home of various owners.

An authentic place with its charm intact

From the time of its construction to the present day, Champ-Renard has undergone several major renovations, and this authentic Beaujolais château has managed to retain its historic charm while embracing modernization.

One could even say that the various renovations have helped give it its unique character, as different architectural influences—each a reflection of its time—blend together in the current building and its grounds.

The medieval tower, the only surviving structure from the 13th century, now opens onto the vaulted Guard Room, which has been converted into a reception hall; while the rest of the structure is typical of 15th-century French architecture; the 19th century, however, added a distinct neo-Gothic and Romantic touch to the windows and the English-style park, with its rockery bridge, artificial stream, and bamboo grove. Visitors can access the château via the Charmille, a beautiful avenue lined with century-old trees, giving the impression of stepping into a timeless bubble.

The renovations undertaken by owners and winemakers Fabienne Vilain and Denis Garnier since 2014 were designed to bring comfort and modernity to the château and its various rooms, while highlighting the historic prestige of the property. Wood, stone, and glass dominate the reception rooms on the garden level (which house the former Guard Room and Courtroom), while the upstairs salons blend antiques and contemporary design in a warm and refined atmosphere.

Finally, the vineyard has been restructured and has resumed operations. The Champ-Renard estate now offers its line of eco-friendly and vegan wines, reviving a long-standing tradition in the estate’s history.

Château de Champ-Renard is located 15 minutes from the Villefranche-sur-Saône train station, 30 minutes from the Mâcon-Loché SNCF station, 35 minutes from Lyon, and 2 hours and 15 minutes from Paris by TGV. Our team is here to assist you in booking a wine-tasting tour, a stay in the château’s apartments, or to reserve the entire estate for a private event.