A wine château steeped in history and a family proud of its heritage
Its history
From the 11th century to the present day, the Château de Bioul estate has known a variety of fortunes. It witnessed several wars and passed through many hands. It fell into disrepair under the occupation of the Jauche family, who mortgaged it to cope with their financial difficulties. In 1554, it was burnt down by the troops of King Henry II of France, after which the Brandenburg family transformed the historic feudal castle into a prestigious residential manor house.
A few centuries later, François Vaxelaire, originally from Wiesembach in Lorraine, arrived in Belgium, where he founded the ‘bon marché’ department stores.
He began by renting Château de Bioul in 1896, before acquiring it in 1906 and carrying out major renovation work.
One family, one motto: ‘In Arduis Constans’.
Today, the Vaxelaire family still occupies the site and looks after its preservation. You will find their coat of arms and motto above the porch:
"In Arduis Constans" - Tenacity in adversity
A passion for wine
The idea of taking over a vineyard was a dream that Andy and Vanessa were saving for their old age. When they discovered Belgian wine, everything changed!
They moved from Brussels to the family chateau and a few months later planted their first vines in the heart of ‘Vignoulle’, an area with a long history of winegrowing.
Today, the 13 hectares of vines bring the hillsides of yesteryear back to life. It is in the heart of this unique heritage that all the wines are made and matured over the course of the seasons: Johanniter, Muscaris, Pinotin...
Are you unfamiliar with these grape varieties? They are reminiscent of Riesling, Muscat or Pinot Noir, but are naturally resistant to fungal diseases that can lead to total crop losses (mildew, powdery mildew).
What's more, they are perfectly suited to northern climates and avoid the use of chemicals. And in 2020, the vineyard will receive organic certification.
Soak up this magnificent history by discovering our Made In Bioul route!
An interactive tour that takes you back in time to the château and the Vaxelaire family, before showing you the birth of the estate, the organic viticulture practised in our vineyards, and the majestic vat room and its secrets.
You can end your visit with a stroll through the park and discover its century-old trees.