Foundation of Maison Guigal
Maison Guigal was founded in 1946 by Etienne Guigal in Ampuis, a small, ancient village at the heart of the Côte-Rôtie appellation. It is home to unique vineyards where vines and wine have been celebrated for 2,400 years. Following his arrival in 1924 at the age of 14, the founder made wine for 67 vintages in Côte-Rôtie and, at the beginning of his career, took part in the development of the Vidal-Fleury establishment.
Marcel Guigal takes over management of the domain
A still very young Marcel Guigal took over management of the domain when his father was struck by temporary but total blindness. He was joined in 1973 by his wife, Bernadette and they worked hand-in-hand to expand the family business. In 1975, their son Philippe was born.
Vidal-Fleury Establishment
Since 1946, hard work and perseverance have paid their dividends. Certain developments attest to this. In particular, the purchase of the Vidal-Fleury establishment at the beginning of the 1980’s, which today still retains commercial autonomy and its own identity.
Château d’Ampuis
Ten years later, 1995 heralded the acquisition of the famous Château d’Ampuis, an historical and oenological marvel situated on the banks of the Rhône with a long history linked directly to the Côte-Rôtie appellation.
Philippe Guigal joins the domain
Having worked alongside his father on all technical matters for nearly five years, Philippe Guigal officially joined the domain as winemaker and made his first vintage. In 2007, he was joined by his wife, Eve. Together they incarnate the third generation and ensure the transmission and continuation of the family know-how.
Maison Guigal was expanded further in 2001 when it took over Jean-Louis Grippat and de Vallouit, thus strengthening its position within the Côte-Rôtie appellation as well as in Hermitage, Saint-Joseph and Crozes-Hermitage.
Château d’Ampuis cooperage
In the summer of 2003, Maison Guigal, always striving to improve its knowledge of wine and everything related to it, launched into a new venture: a cooperage. This artisanal craft enables them to master another technique within the charming historical surroundings of the Château d’Ampuis.
Domaine de Bonserine
In March 2006, the Guigal family purchased the Domaine de Bonserine providing it with support as it develops, whilst still respecting its independence. This lovely property based in Ampuis owns prestigious plots in the Côte-Rôtie and Condrieu appellations.
Château de Nalys
The purchase of Château de Nalys in Châteauneuf-du-Pape in July 2017 marks an important stage in the family’s history. Previously only present in the northern Rhône, it now has a presence in the southern Rhône Valley too. This historic property has 75 hectares exclusively in the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation.
Le Caveau du Château
In January 2020, Le Caveau du Château was opened. This is a space for wine tourism dedicated to lovers of wine and history. It houses a museum with numerous ancient objects from the Guigal family’s collection dedicated to viticulture, wine and the art of barrel making.
Château d'Aqueria
Château d’Aqueria joined the Guigal stable in May 2022. This jewel of the Tavel and Lirac appellations covers nearly 100 hectares and maintains its autonomy whilst benefiting from the expertise and support of the family.
“No Pain no Gain”
