Montmelas-Saint-Sorlin, Rhône 69640

A chateau and vat-house, on a former winemaking estate, in a dominant position with 180 views, in the Beaujolais sector. Just off a country road, an ironwork gate opens onto the tree-lined bridleway leading to the foot of the chateau that overlooks the valley and the surrounding landscape. A wide, flat terrace looking out onto the plains surrounds the buildings and the exposed stonework of its plinth course. A second gate located between the chateau and the vat-house leads, via the inner courtyard, to the estate's former farm, which is today self-contained. On both sides, visitors' gazes are drawn upwards towards the glazed-tile roof, which reflect the sunshine and create a striking visual contrast with the sober symmetrical facades. The round corner tower forms a link between the two spaces. Through the courtyard, the vat-house is now used for storage, having previously been used for wine production. The rectangular building is separated from the former tenant farm by an adjoining wall.