1) Discovering Chignin
Located in the heart of France's beautiful Savoie region, the village of Chignin is a true paradise for wine lovers. Nestled at the foot of the majestic Alpine mountains, Chignin offers a picturesque landscape where vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see. This idyllic setting is home to renowned wine estates, ready to provide you with an unforgettable wine tourism experience.
1.1) The unique terroir of Chignin
Chignin benefits from an exceptional terroir, ideal for growing iconic grape varieties such as Jacquère , Altesse and Mondeuse. The clay-limestone soils, combined with a cool mountain climate, give Chignin wines their distinctive character. Local winemakers showcase the pure expression of the grapes, producing white, red and rosé wines of great finesse.
1.2) Wine estates to visit in Chignin
During your visit to Chignin, don't miss the opportunity to explore the region's renowned wineries. These estates offer a unique experience to discover local wines and learn more about winemaking techniques. We look forward to welcoming you to Domaine Denis et Didier Berthollier , and you can also visit the estates of our neighbors, Gilles or Adrien Berlioz, or Claude Quenard et Fils.
1.3) The unmissable Chigneraine wine tourism experiences
Chignin also offers a variety of wine tourism experiences for visitors eager for discovery. You can participate in guided tours of the vineyards, go on bike rides, Segway rides, and even in a 2CV, the French favorite Citroën. Les Deuches du Lac (www.lesdeuchesdulac.fr ) offers chauffeur-driven tours in a legendary 2CV. Several providers specializing in this type of wine tourism tour will help you discover the Chignin vineyards in a unique way. There's something for all tastes and ages, whether you're alone, with family, friends, or colleagues. Enjoy guided tastings to refine your palate and learn to recognize the characteristic aromas of Chignin wines with several winemakers who open their cellars to the public. At Denis and Didier Berthollier's, tours and tastings are also offered in English and German.
2) The wine-growing history of Chignin
Chignin's winemaking history dates back to the 11th century . Vines have always occupied a central place in the lives of the inhabitants, shaping their culture and identity. The region's favorable geographical and climatic conditions have allowed the development of viticulture since ancient times.
Over the centuries, vine cultivation and winemaking techniques have been improved, passed down from generation to generation. Chignin's winegrowers have preserved traditional skills while adapting to market developments and new winemaking techniques.
The region's signature grape variety is Jacquère , a white grape that produces fresh, light, and fruity wines. Other grape varieties such as Bergeron , Altesse, and Mondeuse are also grown in Chignin, offering a variety of wines with varied aromas.
3) Chignin, a destination for all wine lovers
Whether you are a curious novice or a seasoned connoisseur, Chignin has something to satisfy all desires and levels of wine knowledge.
Tastings suitable for everyone at the Denis and Didier estate and Berthollier
Our winery is accustomed to welcoming visitors from all walks of life . Whether you are new to tasting or have extensive expertise, we will adapt to your level of knowledge. We will take the time to explain the characteristics of each of our wines, answer your questions, and guide you in your discovery of Chignin wines. Visit us here if you would like more information on how our tastings work in the cellar.
4) A fusion between culinary traditions and Chignin wines
A visit to Chignin wouldn't be complete without a taste of the local cuisine. Chignin wines pair wonderfully with Savoyard specialties . Restaurants like Le Belvédère in La Chambotte showcase local produce , offering visitors a memorable dining experience .
4.1) Restaurant Le Belvédère in La Chambotte
At Restaurant Le Belvédère in La Chambotte , you also have the opportunity to taste the wines of Domaine Berthollier. This renowned winery in Chignin produces exceptional wines that reflect the region's unique terroir. Thanks to the collaboration between the restaurant and the winery, you can savor Domaine Berthollier's Chignin wines while enjoying the restaurant's refined cuisine. The restaurant offers dishes made from local products, such as diots de Savoie (Savoyard sausage) cooked in mondeuse juice . This harmonious combination of delicious food and quality wines will offer you a complete and memorable tasting experience. Don't hesitate to ask the restaurant staff for advice on the different Domaine Berthollier wines that will pair perfectly with your meal.
5) Why visit Chignin and its region?
5.1) The captivating view of the vineyards
When visiting Chignin, be sure to look up to admire the magnificent vineyard landscapes stretching out before you. The terraced vineyards offer a breathtaking visual spectacle, where rows of vines blend seamlessly with the mountains in the background. Each season offers its own unique array of colors and contrasts, providing visitors with breathtaking panoramas.
5.2) A revitalizing getaway
A visit to Chignin is a true escape from everyday life. Far from the hustle and bustle of big cities, you can recharge your batteries in the heart of unspoiled nature. The peaceful landscapes and vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see will invite you to relax and contemplate. Take advantage of this enchanting break to reconnect with yourself and immerse yourself in the beauty of the place.
5.3) Meeting with enthusiasts
Wine tourism in Chignin is also an opportunity to meet passionate winemakers who generously share their expertise and love of wine. Discussions with these passionate professionals will allow you to better understand the winemaking process, the specificities of the terroir and the subtleties of each grape variety. At Domaine Denis and Didier Berthollier, we offer a tasting of 5 or 6 different wines, white and red, representative of the wines of Chignin. We explain how the work is done in the vineyard, according to organic farming and biodynamic methods (the Domaine has been AB certified by Ecocert since 2017, and is in the process of Demeter certification for its practice of biodynamics ), but also how the wines are vinified. The tasting takes place in the old cellar of the Domaine, or when the weather permits, you can sit outside in the shade of the old lime tree around a table, with family or friends. You can take home a few bottles of the vintages that most appeal to you. Today's wine world is opening up to the general public, and in Chignin, as in other wine-growing regions of France, winemakers are keen to share their terroir, their work, and their wines.
5.4) Support for the local Chigneraine economy
Wine tourism also contributes to the economic development of Chignin and its surrounding areas. By visiting wineries, purchasing bottles of wine, and dining in local restaurants, you are directly supporting local businesses. Your contribution will help preserve Savoyard winemaking traditions, maintain economic activity, and promote the reputation of Chignin wines.
6) History of Chignerain monuments:
Chignin is not only renowned for its vineyards, but also for its magnificent hiking trails that offer breathtaking views. While exploring these trails, you'll also have the opportunity to discover several historical monuments that bear witness to the region's rich past.
Among these monuments are the medieval towers that stand proudly in the landscape. These medieval remains are a reminder of Chignin's strategic importance at the time. These towers offer a fascinating glimpse into medieval architecture and are well worth a visit.
6.1) The Crosses of Chignin and Tormery and their locations
Source: http://cdn2_3.reseaudescommunes.fr/cities/1757/documents/3ys5pmxxgpru0u.pdf
The Chignin and Torméry Crosses were once iconic landmarks perched atop the mountain, proudly overlooking the territory of Chignin. These crosses, in addition to their religious significance, also marked the boundaries between Chignin and other neighboring communities. Let's discover the precise locations of these two crosses steeped in history.
The Cross of Chignin
The Chignin Cross, located at the top of the La Tour couloir, occupied a strategic and symbolic position. According to 18th-century reports by surveyor André Tentorio, this cross was approximately 395 trabucs and 6 feet (or approximately 1,218.4 meters) from the Pas de la Biche, also known as the Trou de Chignin. It was also 142 trabucs (or approximately 437 meters) from the cross-marked rock, which served as a separation between the borders of Curienne. Today, this rock is known as the "marked rock at Mont Saint Martin" or the "boundary of the three cantons." The Chignin Cross was restored to its precise location on May 14, 2011, thus preserving its historical significance.
The Torméry Cross
The Torméry Cross was located at a distance of approximately 103 trabucs and 8 feet (approximately 318 meters) from the Rocher de Midy. This cross faced the Pas de la Biche, approximately 166 trabucs and 6 feet (approximately 511 meters) from the cross itself. The Pas de la Biche, now called Trou de Chignin, was crossed by a path connecting Torméry to La Thuile. In 1709, the French also referred to it as "Les Eguilles." The Torméry Cross was restored to its original location on June 15, 2013, thus preserving its historical heritage.
These two crosses, with their precise locations, bear witness to the cultural, religious and geographical importance they had in the Chignin region.
6.2) The Chignin towers: a former fortified camp
Geography
The Chignin Towers are located in the commune of Chignin, in the Savoie department of the Rhône-Alpes region of France. They stand on a plateau 0.6 kilometers west-northwest of the village church, overlooking the road to Chambéry.
History
In the 11th century, there is mention of a castle and a chapel in Chignin. Towards the middle of the 13th century, the lordship was divided between several heirs, each of whom erected a tower. Amédée V of Savoy ordered the enclosure of the site of Chignin between 1233 and 1253. Over the centuries, the site was occupied on various occasions by the French, Sardinian troops, and French troops during conflicts with Savoy.
In 1983 and 1985, a campaign of archaeological surveys was carried out by the medievalist Bernard Demotz and his students, demonstrating the coherence of the fortified complex.
The towers
The Chignin Towers site covers 4 hectares and is composed of seven 12th-century residential towers. Four towers are square, two are circular, and one has disappeared. The towers were connected by curtain walls flanked by smaller round towers. Three other outworks completed the site's defenses.
La Biguerne or Clos Saint-Anthelme
La Biguerne, also known as Clos Saint-Anthelme, is a tower located at the bottom of the plateau. Its surrounding wall and the corner turrets of its terrace have been raised from their ruins. During the 20th century, La Biguerne was transformed into a women's health center, founded by Magdeleine de Buttet after the First World War.
Square Tower or Archers' Tower
The Place Tower is a square tower composed of four stories above the ground floor. Three levels of the tower are still visible, measuring 18 meters high. The tower has a round-arched doorway on the first floor and windows on the ground and second floors.
Other towers
The site also includes other towers, such as the Corraz Tower, a ruined round tower, the Bourdeau Tower, a square tower to the north of the site, and the Montagny Tower. Each of these towers has its own historical and architectural heritage.
7) Chignin FAQ
1) What makes Chignin unique for wine lovers?
Chignin is located in the heart of France's beautiful Savoie region, boasting a picturesque landscape with vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see. Its exceptional terroir, combining clay-limestone soils and a cool mountain climate, allows for the cultivation of iconic grape varieties such as Jacquère, Altesse, and Mondeuse, resulting in exquisite white, red, and rosé wines.
2) Which wineries are worth visiting in Chignin?
While visiting Chignin, be sure to explore the region's renowned wineries, such as Domaine Denis et Didier Berthollier , Domaine Berlioz, and Domaine Claude Quenard et Fils. Each of these estates offers a unique experience to taste local organic wines and learn more about winemaking techniques.
3) What are the must-see wine tourism experiences in Chignin?
Chignin offers a variety of wine tourism experiences for visitors eager for discovery. You can participate in guided tours of the vineyards, organized by several specialized providers (bicycle tours, 2CV tours, Segway tours, etc.), and enjoy guided tastings at numerous wineries. Alone or accompanied, with family, friends, in a group, or with colleagues, any occasion is a good one to come and discover the wines of Chignin, and visit our vineyard.
4) What is the wine history of Chignin?
Chignin's winemaking history dates back to the 11th century. Vines have always held a central place in the lives of local residents, shaping their culture and identity. Local winemakers have preserved traditional skills while adapting to market developments and new winemaking techniques.
5) Why visit Chignin and its territory?
Chignin offers captivating wine-growing landscapes with its terraced vineyards offering breathtaking panoramas. It's also a rejuvenating destination, far from the hustle and bustle of big cities, where you can relax in the heart of unspoiled nature. By visiting Chignin, you'll have the opportunity to meet passionate winemakers and support the local Chignin economy.
6) What are the Crosses of Chignin and Torméry?
The Crosses of Chignin and Torméry were iconic landmarks located atop the mountain in the Chignin region. They had both religious significance and marked the territorial boundaries of Chignin with other neighboring communities.
7) What were the precise locations of these crosses?
The Chignin Cross was located at the top of the La Tour couloir, approximately 395 trabucs and 6 feet (approximately 1218.4 meters) from the Pas de la Biche. The Torméry Cross was located approximately 103 trabucs and 8 feet (approximately 318 meters) from the Rocher de Midy.
8) What is the historical legacy of these crosses?
The Chignin and Torméry Crosses bear witness to their cultural, religious, and geographical importance in the Chignin region. They have been restored to their original location to preserve their historical significance.
9) What are the Chignin Towers?
The Chignin Towers are a former fortified camp located in the commune of Chignin, in the Savoie department of France. They stand on a plateau 0.6 kilometers west-northwest of the village church, overlooking the road to Chambéry.
10) How many towers are there in Chignin?
There are seven 12th-century residential towers in Chignin. Four towers are square, two are circular, and one tower has disappeared.
11) What is the history of the Chignin Towers?
In the 11th century, mention is made of a castle and a chapel in Chignin. Towards the middle of the 13th century, the lordship was divided between several heirs, each of whom erected a tower. Over the centuries, the site was occupied on various occasions by the French, Sardinian troops, and French troops during conflicts with Savoy.
9) What are the characteristics of the Chignin Towers?
The Chignin towers were connected by curtain walls flanked by smaller round towers. The site also includes other towers, such as the Corraz Tower, the Bourdeau Tower, and the Montagny Tower, each with its own historical and architectural heritage.