July 11, 2017

A test that will reinvent your holidays in France

If we had to describe Renaud Limbosch, we’d say that he is the most Bordeaux-like of Belgians (or the most Belgian of Bordeaux’s inhabitants for that matter!). After studying agronomy in Gembloux, Renaud had a life-changing meeting with a wine-grower from the Côtes de Castillon in 1989. Side-by-side with this vintner — and together with his wife, Franziska — Renaud learnt all about the technical side, hardships and ins-and-outs of the various sectors of the wine trade. Eight years roll by, and the couple are offered the chance of a lifetime: to buy the Château Tifayne vineyard next door to Saint-Emilion! They seize the opportunity: even though the estate is small and there is no real château, it doesn’t matter — Renaud and Franziska are blessed with a fine imagination and a love of the land. Bingo! Today they have doubled the size of the estate, and the elegant, stone-built mansion dating back to the 18th century now houses four guest rooms. And a swimming pool has even popped up in the garden! This is the perfect spot for exploring the life of a “small” Bordeaux château from the inside, all in a family, relaxed — and Belgian — atmosphere. You’ll leave the place with a smile on your face, obviously loaded with a few bottles of house Crémant, white, pink or red.

Info and reservations

A Michelin-starred restaurant in Saint Emilion with three warm, simply-furnished lounges and a beautiful terrace. The cuisine is inventive and is made from local produce: classic French gastronomy revisited. There is a substantial wine list with over 700 bottles. In short, a first-rate establishment.

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