Timeline

Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Château de Cerons, also known as the Château Calvimont, is a classically styled cartreuse built between the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Located 35 km south of Bordeaux, it was built by the Denys family, members of Parliament from Bordeaux, on the site of the old village of Cerons. Its architecture includes Louis XIV elements, with two pavilions and a carved acrotare, while its position on the Garonne River reflects its historical importance for the wine trade.

The estate passed into the hands of the family of Calvimont in the 18th and 19th centuries, before being marked by the French Revolution, which pushed its owners into exile. Sold at auction, it changed hands several times before being acquired by the Vaché family, then partially restored by architect Roger Expert in the 20th century. During the two world wars and the Algerian war, the castle served as a military hospital or refuge, illustrating its social and humanitarian role.

Since 1958, the castle belongs to the Perromat family, which produces liquorous wines (AOC Cerons) as well as dry red and white wines in the Graves appellation. Ranked a Historic Monument in 2008 for its interior decorations (sculptures, carpentry, stuccos), the estate now combines sustainable viticulture, wine tourism and cultural events. Its terroir, marked by gravely and limestone soils, gives the wines a distinctive freshness.

The castle is distinguished by its environmental commitment: tillage without weeds, preservation of biodiversity, and reduction of its carbon footprint. Labelled Vineyards & Discoveries, it offers visits, tastings and artistic animations, thus perpetuating its heritage, both winemaking, historical and cultural.

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