Château Franc Mayne & Le Relais

Surrounded by rolling vineyards and the golden light of southwest France, Château Franc Mayne is a hidden gem just outside medieval Saint-Émilion. This 18th-century wine estate and boutique hotel offers a rare blend of heritage, intimacy, and terroir-driven excellence.

Lovingly restored by Griet and Hervé Laviale-Van Malderen since 2004, the estate marries tradition and innovation under the expert guidance of famed oenologist Michel Rolland. The result: refined wines and an immersive guest experience on one of Bordeaux’s most prestigious terroirs.

🍇 The Vineyard & Winemaking

Spanning 7 hectares, the estate’s Grand Cru Classé vineyard is planted across a tapestry of terroirs:

• Limestone plateau – classic to Saint-Émilion, producing structured, age-worthy wines

• Clay-limestone slopes – balancing power with finesse

• Clay-sand soils – contributing aromatic freshness and elegance

Grape varieties:

• Merlot (90%) – Rich, velvety texture and dark fruit expression

• Cabernet Franc (10%) – Adds lift, spice, and aging potential

Château Franc Mayne practices sustainable viticulture, hand-harvesting and vinifying parcel by parcel to reflect the nuances of each plot.

Wines produced:

• Château Franc Mayne – Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé

• Les Cèdres de Franc Mayne – Second wine, approachable and expressive

🪨 A Cellar Like No Other – The Underground Quarry

Beneath the vines lies a 2-hectare underground quarry, part of a vast labyrinth of limestone tunnels unique to the region. Today, this awe-inspiring cave is softly illuminated and used as a barrel-aging cellar, offering a mystical and memorable setting for tours and tastings.

🛌 Le Relais de Franc Mayne – Stay Amid the Vines

Located on the estate, Le Relais is a 12-room boutique wine hotel, where each room is individually styled with a blend of artistic flair and rural charm—think exposed stone, wooden beams, eclectic art, and serene vineyard views.

All rooms include:

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

• Flat-screen TV, CD/DVD player, iPod dock

• Minibar, safe, and eco-friendly toiletries

• Views of the surrounding vineyards or gardens

Guests can unwind in the cozy lounge, explore the landscaped gardens, or cool off in the natural eco-pool—a chemical-free swimming experience surrounded by nature.

🍷 Immersive Wine Experiences

Staying at Château Franc Mayne offers more than just accommodation—it’s a full immersion in the life of a working Grand Cru estate.

• Daily guided tours of the vineyard, cellar, and underground caves

• Tastings of current vintages, including side-by-side comparisons

• Workshops and wine-focused experiences available on request

Private tastings and custom experiences can be arranged for groups or special occasions.

💍 Weddings & Private Events

For intimate celebrations in an unforgettable setting, Château Franc Mayne offers:

• Ceremony and reception spaces with panoramic vineyard views

• The atmospheric stone cellar for dinners or wine-themed events

• Stylish accommodations for up to 24 guests

• Tailor-made planning for weddings, anniversaries, and corporate retreats

Whether you’re celebrating love, milestones, or a passion for wine, the estate offers a truly elegant and soulful backdrop.

🚶 Explore the Region

Just 1 km from Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO-listed town known for its medieval charm and gourmet culture, guests can enjoy:

• Walking or cycling through vineyard trails and Roman-era paths

• Visiting nearby wineries and châteaux

• Exploring historic architecture, artisan shops, and wine bars

• Guided tours to Bordeaux, Libourne, and the Dordogne Valley

E-bike rentals and regional itineraries are available through the hotel.

🚗 Getting There & Practical Info

• By car: 10 min from Libourne | 45 min from Bordeaux

• By train: Libourne Station (TGV) – 10 min

• By air: Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport – 60 min

• Parking: Free private parking available on-site

✨ Live the Grand Cru Life

Whether you’re dreaming of a peaceful vineyard escape, a wine-fueled adventure, or an intimate celebration, Château Franc Mayne invites you to slow down, savor every detail, and experience the soul of Saint-Émilion—from the vines to the cellar, and from the château to your pillow.