A First Star in the 2026 Guide to the Best Wines of France A First Star in the 2026 Guide to the Best Wines of France

It is with immense pride that Château de La Chaize receives its first star in the 2026 Guide to the Best Wines of France, published by La Revue du Vin de France (RVF).
This prestigious distinction recognizes eight years of dedication, passion, and rigor since the Gruy family took over the estate in 2017, all devoted to promoting premium Beaujolais wines.

RVF highlights the revival of a historic Beaujolais estate

In the 2026 guide, La Revue du Vin de France writes: “By acquiring this estate in 2017, Christophe Gruy awakened a sleeping beauty. A historic Brouilly property, previously cultivated by tenant farmers, La Chaize now benefits from an owner who has fully grasped its potential: major investments have been made in the vineyard (replanting and conversion to organic farming), in the winery (a massive renovation project), and in the team (Pierre-Jean Villa as consultant, and Boris Gruy, Christophe’s nephew, appointed director) to bring the château’s 150 hectares to their highest potential.”

A star that rewards a collective project

This first star is more than just an award: it celebrates a vision and a team.
From vineyard work to winemaking, every decision is aimed at revealing the purity of Gamay, the emblematic grape of Beaujolais, and positioning Château de La Chaize among the references for French excellence in wine.
It reaffirms our ambition: to produce wines that are sincere, balanced, and true to their terroir—wines capable of delighting both curious enthusiasts and discerning connoisseurs.

Wines that combine depth, precision, and pleasure

The RVF also notes: “The range presents a generous and spontaneous style for the ‘smaller’ cuvées, serious, deep, and precise for the single-parcel wines, with a thoughtful integration of whole clusters. The consistency, the élevages, and the overall progression of the range allow access to the first star.”

This recognition highlights the consistency and quality across the estate’s wines—from approachable, generous, and precise Gamay blends called ‘Les Grands Classiques’ to the most ambitious single-parcel selections, true reflections of the identity of each Beaujolais cru.

The review concludes: “2023 is a successful vintage at the château, demonstrating remarkable coherence across the range and fidelity to the vintage’s profile.”

A confirmation of the work accomplished, respecting both the terroir and the distinctive character of each wine.

About the Guide to the Best Wines of France

Published annually by La Revue du Vin de France, the Guide to the Best Wines of France is an essential reference for both professionals and informed wine lovers.
By awarding stars to the most remarkable estates in the country, it highlights reliable values as well as emerging talents from each region, reflecting a rigorous and insightful appraisal of the French vineyard.