Nestled amidst the vineyards, the magnificent Château de Melin lies just a few kilometres from the town of Auxey-Duresses, in France’s Burgundy region. Built in 1551, the stunning château comprises three rectangular buildings, each featuring elegant spiral staircases that ascend to distinctive rooftop towers. These structures are arranged around a charming square courtyard, reminiscent of a fairytale setting.
Since the French Revolution, seven generations of family winemakers have devoted themselves to the land and the art of winemaking. In 1999, the estate passed into the hands of the current generation, Hélène and Arnaud Derats, who undertook a comprehensive restoration of the château, and expanded the estates land which today spans 28 hectares of vineyards across 17 appellations, 15 in the Côte de Beaune and 2 in the Côte de Nuits. More recently, their sons Thomas and Guillaume have joined the family business, bringing fresh energy and passion, while continuing to uphold the family’s long-standing winemaking traditions.
In 2009, following many years of sustainable viticultural practice, Château de Melin received their official Organic Certification. Sustainability remains central to the family’s ethos, who say: “For a wine to be of good quality, it is essential to respect the vine and its environment. Only then can the vine fully assimilate and express the unique characteristics of the soil through its grapes.”
In the cellar, modernity meets tradition. Winemaking at Château de Melin combines the use of stainless steel tanks and oak barrels, allowing each wine to age with elegance and precision. Château de Melin wines are crafted with meticulous care and represent some of the most celebrated villages in Burgundy. They offer a true reflection of the region’s exceptional terroir.