1. Presentation

We are proud to offer you a Guide of the Best Wine Hotel Destinations.
The Guide shows Hotels from all over the World, with a particular sensibility to the wine classified in three different categories :

- Charm Hotels surrounded by vineyards or in little villages.
- Urban Hotels in big cities.
- Winery Hotels, for those which also produce wine.

Team of WineHotelGuide.
winehotelguide@loftwines.com

Jacques Lameloise, Burgundy

Hotel. For almost 100 years the Lameloise family has run this quaint hotel in Chagny, France. Before the Lameloises took custody of the hotel this 16th century building acted as a mail relay station around the time of Louis XI. Lameloise has since emerged as one of the premiere hotels in Burgundy noted for its excellent cuisine and unmatched hospitality. Today chef Jacques Lamelois continues this tradition that was set forth by his grandfather, Pierre Lameloise back in 1920. Hopefully Jacques’ children will continue to follow suite, for this hotel is truly remarkable and an absolute joy to visit.

Wine. Bernard Pivot once said, “even the water is delicious in Burgundy!” Lameloise may actually prove him right. However, Burgundy’s fame comes from the vines. Rich red wines produced here have captured the world’s attention, and more specifically their senses. It is no wonder that Lameloise has built up a wine cellar filled with rare, fine vintages from both Burgundy and the world. Lameloise’s central location makes it ideal for wine lovers to visit Burgundy’s best vineyards and wineries nearby.

Dining. Since 1979, Lameloise has had a three star rating in the Michelin Guide and much of this restaurant’s success is owed to current “grand chef cuisinier” Jacques Lameloise. Delicate French cuisine is at its pinnacle when Lameloise gets involved. The restaurant’s most famous dishes include “raviolis d’escargots de Bourgogne dans leur bouillon d’ail doux” and “pigeonneau rôti à l’émiettée de truffes.”

La Villa Gallici, Provence

Hotel. La Villa Gallici’s 4-star rating attests to the brilliance of this hotel. Overlooking the city of Aix-en-Provence, guests enjoy the view of this medieval town from their terrace or the private pool. Secluded in a Florentine garden under only the sun and the cypress trees, La Villa Gallici’s privacy is utterly peaceful. Staying in one of the eleven personalized rooms or one of the eight elegant apartments, guests will be living a true Provencal experience. It will not be complete without unbelievable French cuisine and a bottle of the best Bordeaux, Burgundy or Aix wines from a vineyard nearby.

Wine. The Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence makes up the second largest region of Provencal wines, which is exactly where La Villa Gallici sits. Most of the vineyards in this winemaking region produce red wine, however the rosés of Aix-en-Provence are also reputable. La Villa Gallici’s location makes it a perfect place for wine tourists to set their bags down before tasting their way through southern France.

Dining. The large sofas and cozy wingback chairs greet you at your table. Sitting in a plush chair makes your meal just that much more enjoyable. La Villa Gallici’s restaurant is quaint and rather small, however the kitchen produces some unique and large dishes for family and friends to share.

Hunter Resort, Hunter Valley

Hotel. Unwind in serenity surrounded by an endless green landscape of mountains and vineyards in Hunter Valley. Hunter Resort is in the heart of beautiful Hunter Valley wine region on 70 acres of land. Family owned by the Helé’s, this resort is the most flourishing in the area because of the hardwork and dedication that has been put into making it the best, not to mention the three generations of innkeepers in the family. Hunter Resort has only 35 rooms, ensuring your stay at this Australian inn will be quiet, relaxing, and personal.

Wine. Hunter Resort boasts a glass wine cellar at the front of their restaurant proving their large selection of labels. Guests may enjoy bottles from around the world, and even some local, private, and hard to find selections. A better place than Hunter Resort will not be found in the valley since it is the largest in the area; the winery offers the top tastings with unique creations of locally grown and hand-made wines and guests can even see how wine is made. With vintages that date back to the 1940’s, it is obvious to see why they Hunter Resort has been awarded Restaurant & Caterers Hunter Region Wine List of the Year Winner in 2000-2001, 2001-2002 & 2005-2006.

Dining. Chef Phillip Collis has created a variety of delectable dishes to suite your palate that exemplifies the tradition of Australian cuisine. Of course, San Martino Restaurant only uses the freshest local produce in each recipe guaranteeing the finest zest possible. Cooking classes are offered to those who would like to take a taste of the fine cuisine home with them.

Le Côte Saint Jacques, Burgundy

Hotel. In the heart of a small town on the Yonne River, famed chef Jean-Michel Lorain’s epicenter of exceptional cuisine, Le Côte Saint Jacques, awaits your arrival. Snuggled up on the banks of the river, the rooms overlook the beautiful Burgundy region of France and the property’s exquisite gardens. Jean-Michel Lorain and the personable staff members devote themselves to making your stay the most luxurious while still maintaining distance to ensure an intimate experience. Between the private boat tours, cooking classes, vineyard tours, spa and 3-starred (Michelin) restaurant, Le Côte Saint Jacques has created a haven for food lovers looking to sit back, relax, and enjoy life.

Wine. To truly make a memorable meal in the gastronomic tradition, wine must be complementary to the chef’s creation. Therefore, Jean-Michel Lorain has surrounded himself with wine stewards that have combed through the best wine regions of the world to come up with a wine list and cellar filled with 800 diverse labels that all have high quality in common. Although guests of the hotel can explore the cellar below, Le Côte Saint Jacques is completely surrounded by villages and vineyards of Burgundy that date back as far as the 4th century A.D. Today the Chablis, Beaune and Côte de Nuits regions cultivate some of the best labels in France.

Dining. With 3 stars from the Michelin Guide, there is no doubt that Jean-Michel Lorain’s cuisine is absolutely paramount. Despite emerging from a family of cooks, Jean-Michel has honed his own skills by focusing on the power of each ingredient. In effect, he has become one of the most acclaimed and praised gastronomic chefs of this generation. During a stay at Le Côte Saint Jacques you must reserve a table in one of the dining rooms facing the river in order to have the privilege of experiencing these heavenly plates.

Chateau des Salles, Gironde

Hotel. Each decorated in the French country style, the six rooms of Chateau Des Salles invite you to put down your bags, unwind and take in the surroundings. Half a century ago the Couillaud family restored this charming chateau to its original beauty and elegance. Today the chateau is surrounded by gardens where guests can go enjoy their breakfast or just sit and relax. The estate produces its own wine and cognac that guests tend to enjoy in the traditional salon of the chateau. Furthermore, Chateau Des Salles is nestled in the countryside of Saint-Fort-sur-Gironde in the Bordeaux region.

Wine. The nearby vineyards of Saint-Emilion, Médoc and Bordeaux invite the guests of Chateau Des Salles to visit the vines and taste the wines. However, alongside the Cognac that is produced on the chateau’s estate is a fortified wine called “Pineau des Charentes.” Another, “Domaine des Salles,” appears on the wine list as well.

Dining. The small dining room of the hotel fits provides a cozy space for a delectable meal of traditional local foods. With emphasis on fresh garden vegetables grown on the estate and seafood, the plates that come out of the kitchen are always crisp and refreshing. Good regional wines from the wine list flatter the dishes.

Les Sources de Caudalie, Bordeaux

Hotel. Do you want to discover the Grands Crus Classes of Bordeaux? Whether you know what that even means or not, Les Sources de Caudalie is a Mecca for anyone looking to escape this world and transport into another. The country inn style of this 49 room, nine-suite hotel provides an at-home feel in the French countryside. Unwind in the Caudalie Vinotherapie Spa located next door in the vineyards of Château Smith Hout Lafitte with these unique treatments that combine natural springs and grape extracts. And choose from the two restaurants where you will enjoy the most refined and tasty cuisine.

Wine. If the cellar full of 15,000 bottles is not enough, head out into the Bordeaux countryside and explore some of the most famous varieties in the world. With over 700 million bottles of wine coming out of the Bordeaux region each year, it has become the leading contributor to this area’s economy. Ranging from inexpensive to absurdly high-priced, these are some of the most prestigious wines of the world, not just of France. Les Sources de Caudalie offers its guests wine tasting lessons along with a day trip to a wine school at St. Emilion and a private château visit.

Dining. Both restaurants of Les Sources de Caudalie present dishes rich in flavor that can be accompanied by wines from the hotel’s cellar. However for a more country-style cuisine head to “La Table du Lavoir.” And for the gourmet gastronomic experience, “La Grand Vigne” has a menu filled with refined and classic dishes that exude the best in French cuisine.

Relais Bernard Loiseau, Burgundy

Hotel. Le Relais Bernard Loiseau is an oasis of gastronomy and opulent living in the idyllic setting of Burgundy. Close to the Chablis winemaking region and the Morvan, the vineyards surrounding Le Relais Bernard Loiseau have greatly influenced its existence. Each detail of your stay at this hotel will exude relaxation and luxury of the highest quality. The stunning estate includes a spa, beauty salon, boutique, swimming pool and beautiful, sprawling gardens. But of course following the legacy of Bernard Loiseau, the hotel’s cuisine is paramount.

Wine. As one of the best cellar hotels in Burgundy, it is no wonder that one of the best sommeliers in the world tends to the bottles. Cellarmaster Eric Goettelmann, who has worked at Le Relais Bernard Loiseau for seven years, has combed through countless varieties and vintages to create a wine list that will blow your mind. Composed of over 20,000 vineyard-bottled wines and 1,000 different varieties, the hotel’s wine cellars are home to the cream of the crop of wines. If you plan ahead, Mr. Goettelmann will prepare an out-of-this-world tasting experience and leave behind his highest recommendations that are specifically catered to your own personal likes and dislikes. Aside from the cellars, the hotel’s location in the heart of Burgundy furthers your wine education by allowing access to various vineyards and winemaking regions.

Dining. At the passing of legendary master chef Bernard Loiseau, his protégé, Patrick Bertron, promised to continue his legacy and preserve his excellence. The restaurant at Le Relais Bernard Loiseau has since evolved with Patrick. Although Bertron’s own unique style shines through these complex dishes, the traditional delicacies of Loiseau’s recipes are constants. Staying true to both the Loiseau legacy and the integrity of fresh ingredients, the restaurant has proven to be an absolute delight.

Oustau de Baumaniere, Provence

Hotel. Although many people would never consider visiting the “Valley of Hell,” the Oustau de Baumaniere gastronomic inn makes it worthwhile. Located in Les Baux-de-Provence, a small village in southern France, amidst the Alpilles Mountains, it is believed that the rocky terrain and steep cliffs of the village inspired Dante Alighieri’s vision of Purgatory. But today, it is the beauty and uniqueness of this village and the amazing hotels like Oustau de Baumaniere that attract hundreds of tourists year-round. A 17th century farmhouse run by Jean-André and Geneviève Charial rests against the mountains providing a tranquil sanctuary filled with gardens and antique guest rooms to rest your head.

Wine. Owner and executive chef, Jean-André Charial, learned the art of winemaking from his grandfather and father. Always expecting to go into the family business and continue the tradition of excellence at Oustau de Baumaniere, Jean-Andre fostered a passion for the vines and toady he produces his own version, L’Affectif, from old Grenache stock. But besides having its own house wine, the cellar at Oustau de Baumaniere astounds even the critics. Comprised of a collection of rare vintages and labels as well as lesser-known glories, over the years the “100,000 flagon” cellar has become the heart of the property.

Dining. With a philosophy of “perfection and simplicity” it is no wonder that the dishes created by Jean-André are clean, classic and utterly to-die-for. One classic dish that has become Jean-André’s trademark is truffle and leek raviolis. Of course the chef has mastered all of the local delicacies, but above-all Jean-André makes sure to stay true to the produce of Les Baux-de-Provence’s purity

Villa Florentine, Lyon

Hotel. Located at the top of old Lyon, impressive views of the city and country are one of many reasons to stop at Villa Florentine. The Renaissance appeal stems from the traditionally designed guest rooms and buildings all of which are comfortable and refined. The swimming pool’s tranquil ambiance is the perfect setting to overlook Lyon. Even at night, sitting on the patio is the best location for surveying the twinkling lights below. The four-star charmer has every luxury and amenity needed for a comfortable and elegant stay.

Wine. Villa Florentine sits between the famed wine regions of Beaujolais in the North and the Côtes du Rhône region in the South giving the hotel access to hundreds of prominent labels. Lyon’s reputation for gastronomy comes from the leading chefs of the world and their ability to craft food that pairs well with French wines. Villa Florentine’s sommelier compiled a cellar and wine list of the best labels and vintages.

Dining. Take in all the savory flavors of “Les Terrasses de Lyon’s” cuisine either in the dining room or outside under the stars of the sky and over the city lights. The gastronomy of Lyon captures all of the refined and splendid factors of cooking, and Villa Floretine’s restaurant does not stray from this reputation.

Hotel Crillon le Brave, Provence

Hotel. Vogue has called Hotel Crillon le Brave “a hotel of great charm and tranquility.” And it has definitely lived up to the title. Perched on the hill of an antique Provencal village, seven houses have been transformed and combined to form this incredibly luxurious retreat. Whet your palate with the beautiful cuisine, or the breathtaking view, or maybe the rich wine country. Whichever you choose, Hotel Crillon le Brave ensures a marvelous stay in the Provencal countryside with a list of favorite things to do including wine tasting routes, bicycle tours, and a relaxing hour at the mini-spa. Or you can stay in the comfort of the hotel and have your very own cooking class with executive Chef Philippe Monti. Decisions, decisions, decisions.

Wine. The wines of the Rhone valley and Provence lie at your fingertips during a stay at Hotel Crillon le Brave. The varieties of Gigondas, Vacqueyras and Chateauneuf-du-Pape await your enjoyment nearby or at the dinner table. With a wine list of over 500 local and international labels, wine connoisseurs will be pleased. The hotel’s sommelier, Cedric Demeneix, arranges vineyard visits and tastings, while at the same time he shares his immense wine knowledge with each and every guest.

Dining. Whether sitting in the dinning room or on the garden terrace, Chef Philippe Monti ensures gorgeous meals in an equally charming atmosphere. The chef’s love of food comes through in every plate, but it goes further. Every October he holds a cooking school session for eight lucky guests to learn his technique and special Provencal recipes. With a resume as impressive as Chef Philippe’s (chef at l’Esperance, l’Auberge de I’Ill and sous-chef at Chewton Glen) the cuisine at Hotel Crillon le Brave is a real delicacy.

Château de La Grave, Bordeaux

Hotel. This magical turreted chateau sits amongst rolling hills of vines and vast panoramic views of the Bordeaux region. Since 1900 the Bassereau family has lived at Château de La Grave, running both the hotel and winery, making sure each entity maintains its excellent reputation. In other words, the Bassereau’s certify that the wine pleases and the hotel feels like home. The hotel has only three guest rooms, and for a magnificent value. Past guests praise this hotel for its attention to detail and for ensuring a mystical wine experience.

Wine. The Château de La Grave winery is an exclusive AOC Vineyard recognized for its Côtes de Bourg, Dédicace. By blending Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot – classic Bordeaux grape varieties – the winemakers came up with the smooth richness of Dédicace. After being aged in oak barrels, the scent of vanilla lingers around the bouquet of blackberry. The name Dédicace stems from the utter dedication that the winemakers put into this blend. When staying at the chateau, guests have the opportunity to taste Dédicace and other winery treats in the cellar.

Hôtel d’Europe, Avignon

Hotel. In the heart of Provence, Avignon patiently awaits the next generation of visitors and there to greet them is the Hôtel d’Europe. It is safe to say that no other hotel in all of Europe has continuously been renowned for its luxury and in turn has hosted so many significant and influential figures. The hotel began in the 16th century as the city home of Marquess of Gravezon, but in 1799 when one of Napoleaon’s “ladyfriends” acquired the mansion, she transformed it into a luxury hotel. Since then Victor Hugo, Picasso, and Jaqueline Kennedy have passed through these brilliant hallways. To further recognize Hôtel d’Europe’s fame, when the first Michelin Guide to France was published in 1900, this hotel was the only one listed under Avignon’s heading.

Wine. Avignon’s surroundings are filled with remarkable vineyards that allow you to appreciate the Côtes du Rhône wines. The hotel’s staff has created itineraries that send you through the south of France soaking up the wine and the history. Of course the hotel’s restaurant does have a very selective wine list filled with local varieties and a range of vintages.

Dining. Expertly crafted food produced by Executive Chef Bruno d’Angelis has earned critical acclaim as well as praise from past patrons. Diners at Hôtel d’Europe are treated to the savory Mediterranean plates composed of the finest products and paramount flavors.

Le Relais de Franc Mayne, Sant-Emilion

Hotel. Le Relais de Franc Mayne sits in the middle of a vineyard in Saint-Emilion, one of Bordeaux’s most charming and beautiful towns. It is believed that Romans began using the soil of Saint-Emilion to cultivate grapes as early as the 2nd century. For the wine tourist, Le Relais de Franc Mayne is the perfect place to rest your head after a full day of tasting and exploring this world-famous wine-region. An intimate hotel, with only 9 rooms, each decorated in its own unique theme, consists of a natural swimming pool, a beautiful setting, and scenery of medieval bell towers and sprawling vineyards.

Wine. Le Relais de Franc Mayne makes sure that every guest takes in as much of the wine culture as possible, starting with a free tour of the wine estate, followed by free tasting of Grand Cru Classe wines. As a principal producer of red wines, Saint-Emilion vineyards primarily grow the Merlot and Cabernet Franc grape varieties.

La Collegiata, Chianti

Hotel. Built as a Franciscan monastery in 1589, what was once the cloister of this medieval estate is now the Hotel La Collegiata. Overlooking the Chianti region of Italy, each of the hotel’s 20 suites will take your breath away. One suite at the top of the tower has a 360 degree view of the valley and San Gimignano, the historic town nearby only a few kilometers away. La Collegiata, though historic by nature, consists of all the necessary amenities and services to satisfy the needs of any guest. From business meetings to romantic getaways, the hotel staff attends to every need while also making sure guests have a private, intimate experience.

Wine. One of the many amenities of the hotel is a beautifully designed wine cellar. Located under the well of the hotel, the wine bar and cellar has been beautifully transformed into the perfect space for private tasting of local Tuscan wines, as well as celebrated champagnes. Because La Collegiata sits in the Tuscan countryside, some of the world’s best vineyards are within reach to hotel guests for tours and visits.

Dining. Il Sagrato Ristorante serves to bring only the best of Tuscan traditional cuisine to its patrons. Set in the old church of the monastery, the restaurant’s beautiful architecture alone is something to marvel at. However, the chef’s commitment to flavors and Tuscan delicacies is also apparent. Alongside the comprehensive and excellent wine list, the restaurant boasts a remarkable oil tasting list. After all, Tuscany produces the best olive oil in the world.

Meadowood, Napa Valley

Hotel. Started as a private club turned hotel forty years ago, Meadowood is known as the original meeting place for wine lovers in Napa Valley. The hotel’s classical architecture, located in the deep valleys of California and surrounded by rolling mountains and beautiful evergreens, is the perfect location to enjoy outdoor activities or absorb the scenery while sipping on glass of wine. The rooms offer and easy and at-home feel, making the stay at Meadowood appealing to come back to time and time again.

Wine. Surrounded by vineyards and wineries of the most exceptional labels in the States, Meadowood is an ideal place to enjoy a variety of vintages. A wine tour around the Napa Valley area is sure to provide you with wine exposure to further your knowledge. Experience the passionate flavors of Napa Valley produced Cabernet Sauvignon from diverse wine districts like Stag’s Leap, Oakville, Rutherford, Spring Mountain, Howell Mountain, and Diamond Mountain. Guests are not limited on wine selections as Meadowoods lists include 950 varied labels. Take advantage of Meadowood’s own sommelier Rom Toulon, who is keen to pairing fine wine and cuisine to enhance the flavors of each.

Dining. The Restaurant at Meadowood serves only the finest cuisine, and in return is one of the few Californian restuarants to receive two stars from the prestigious Michelin Guide. Chef Christopher Kostow executes a creatice touch on his recipes, using unique ingredients paired with classic technique to enhance the aura at Meadowood. Dishes are made to concentrate on Napa Valley’s fresh ingredients and to infuse the palate with a numerous amount of flavors.

Château de Marçay, Loire Valley

Hotel. The 21st century meets the 15th century at the Château de Marçay. Inside this preserved fortress there is a 4-star hotel with 32 rooms, 4 apartments, a wine cellar of over 700 labels and a restaurant you will never forget. All this and more in a palace surrounded by a private vineyard, a beautiful pool and the charm of the Loire Valley. Relax and take in the splendor and romance of the hotel’s vast estate with the ones you love.

Wine. With one of the largest (and oldest) wine cellars in the region, the Château de Marçay is sure to have a label that will tickle your fancy. Underneath the massive fortress, the wine cellar houses a selection of more than 700 references. The chef works alongside the cellar master to highlight the strongest vintages from the Loire Valley. But to really see the tradition of wine making, take a tour through “Le Château de Marçay” vineyard and see first-hand the grapes that eventually evolve into complex flavors in a bottle.

Dining. Colorful and skillfully crafted dishes make up this kingdom of food at the hotel’s restaurant. The bright yellow décor of the dining room contrasts the dark hues of Loire’s reds, adding to the rainbows made by the food itself. The goal of the restaurant is to bring out the flavors of wine with each and every dish.

Grande Roche, Cape Town

Hotel. The Cape Winelands region of South Africa boasts some of the most beautiful vineyards and flavorful wines of the world. The Grande Roche hotel sits in the valley of the Cape Winelands surrounded by sprawling greens and close to the town of Paarl. After being renovated in the early 90s, the Grande Roche hotel emerged as the premiere luxury hotel of the region – it was even declared a national landmark. Amongst the hotel’s lush rooms and beautiful architecture, the humidor is a special attraction for many. With a huge assortment of the finest cigars from around the world, the hotel staff has been trained to care for and recommend these exquisite novelties for your particular likes. Only 40 minutes outside of Cape Town, the Grande Roche must be on everyone’s to do list during a trip to South Africa.

Wine. Cape Winelands’ beautiful vineyards emerge out of the fertile valleys of the region that are diverse in soil and climate. This range results in the world famous flavors of the Winelands’ reds and whites. The Grande Roche fully embraces the viticulture surroundings. Every year, the hotel hosts special Gourmet Evenings complete with five-course meals and wine pairings that highlight Cape Winelands’ fortes. Different hotel packages provide guests with tours of local wine estates, introductions to winemakers, and of course a private wine tasting.

Dining. A “Jacket and Tie” are required for Bosman’s Restaurant in the hotel’s main Victorian manor house. Getting dressed up is not a burden because this exquisite, innovative cuisine returns the favor. Taping into some of Africa’s most flavorful ingredients, Bosman’s dishes excite the palate. For a more relaxed atmosphere, the Bistro Allegro’s outdoor terrace by the pool serves traditional dishes that everyone will enjoy.

Viña Meín, Galicia

Hotel. Viña Meín is a treasure chest of history and viticulture for Spain’s Galicia region. This family owned and operated vineyard and winery invites wine lovers from around the world to stay in their small 8-bedroom retreat and explore the birthplace of Ribeiro wines. This small hotel’s beautifully decorated rooms have views overlooking the vines and are only steps from the winery facilities. As a true residence, the hotel does not have a restaurant, however being so close to the village of San Clodio, guests can enjoy the critically acclaimed eateries nearby.

Wine. When the monks of San Clodio began cultivating vines in this region, they recognized the advantages of sabrego soil and the terrain’s natural slopes. The area became ideal for fostering traditional Treixadura as well as other varieties. As a result, Viña Meín has bottled mouthwatering wines with floral aromas that are not only luscious but also unforgettable.

Chateau de Bagnols, Lyon

Hotel. In 1987 when Lady Hamlyn crossed the drawbridge of the Chateau de Bagnols, her imagination ran wild with possibilities. After lovingly restoring the Chateau to its Renaissance beauty, it became quite clear that this historic, luxurious hotel would be unparalleled. Complete with a dry moat, gardens, towers and turrets, this one of a kind castle overlooks its vineyards as well as the rest of the Beaujolais countryside of southeastern France. Only a short drive from Lyon, the 13th century chateau eagerly awaits its guests, wanting to welcome them to one of 21 elegant rooms or suites. A five star hotel with one-of-a-kind experiences is exactly what you should expect from Chateau de Bagnols.

Wine. In the cellar and cave of Chateau de Bagnols, it is almost as if the wine is hibernating. The utter calm of the long hallway lined with casks is haunting, but a private wine tasting amidst this atmosphere reminds one that the wine is very much alive. The hotel’s sommelier happily serves and recommends only the best of French wines, specifically those from the local Beaujolais region and neighboring Burgundy. Chateau de Bagnols’ impressive wine list compliments the decorated dishes of Matthieu Fontaine.

Dining. Executive chef Matthieu Fontaine joined Chateau de Bagnols in 2003 to lead the kitchen of the hotel’s gastronomic pleasure, La Salle des Gardes. Sitting under a French coat of arms, patrons experience the unique style of Fontaine’s slow cooking and combinations of freshest local produce. With one Michelin star proclaiming its excellence, La Salle des Gardes boasts traditional Beaujolais cuisine that satisfies each and every taste bud. Or for a more intimate experience Le Cuvage allows guests to dine where the wine is made directly above the cellar. And finely, enjoy the outdoors and beautiful French climate by dinning at Le Salon d’Ombrage under the estate’s 100-year-old lime trees.

Clos Apalta, Colchagua Valley

Hotel. This idyllic and modern winery has opened its doors to the wine lover in everyone with the premiere of its exclusive guesthouse. The family-owned Clos Apalta winery has been cultivating superior Chilean wines of deep purple hues and full-bodied tastes for almost a decade. Now with four incredibly private “casitas” nestled on the hillside overlooking the vineyard, guests are now in close proximity to the vines. However, the various terrains of the property permit guests to experience the Chilean countryside through trekking, hiking, and of course exploring the other surrounding wineries and vineyards.

Wine. Clos Apalta is Casa Lapostolle’s world-class iconic wine. This winery in Chile devotes itself solely to Clos Apalta production. Uniquely, this new facility has taken advantage of one of nature’s wonders: gravity. Through the use of gravity, by building the winery against a hillside, the beginning stages of wine making occur at the highest point and as the grapes and juices slide lower in altitude they grow closer to the aging caskets. The beauty in the process: the elimination of pumps that can sometimes alter the wine’s ultimate flavors. This high-tech system alone is fascinating to any wine connoisseur.

Dining. The hotel’s restaurant is located inside the main exclusive guesthouse and, of course, features Clos Apalta’s vintages from the underlying cellar.