Château de Raissac - just 4 km from the historic heart of Béziers - is an unmissable stop-off on any visit to the vineyards of Languedoc. Since it was first acquired in 1828, the Viennet dynasty has transformed the estate into a one-of-a-kind venue where art and wine are top of the bill.

The architect Louis Michel Garros converted the 18th century manor house (built on the remains of a Roman villa) into a château in the late 19th century. In fact, around 40 châteaux like Raissac, known as "pinardiers", were built or restored around Béziers. The estate’s splendid park was designed by the celebrated Bühler brothers.

The family of owners is as awe-inspiring as the estate, hailing from a line of men and women who marked the age in which they lived: an army officer, members of parliament, an author, a poet, a member of the French Academy, the founder of the legendary Béziers rugby club, benefactors, winegrowers and so forth. The list is long and prestigious with the Viennets, and the fifth and sixth generations are now breathing new life into the estate with a blend of art and wine!

The surreal artist Jean Viennet is married to Christine, the world-renowned ceramicist. The work of these two talented individuals, together with the rustic ware collection by followers of the potter Bernard Palissy, can be admired in the Ceramics Museum - in the former stables - as well as in the salons of the château.

It is Gustave and Marie Viennet who are in charge of operations in the immense vineyard. Their Terra Incognita, a Syrah-Grenache assemblage (listed in the Hachette Guide) aged in oak barrels reflects the Languedoc PDO terroir to a tee. Such is the reputation of these wines that the Viennets export their labels all over the world.

And there’s no lack of events and activities on the estate! Not just guided tours of the park, museum, and château, but also all kinds of tastings. In 2022, the Mediterranean Béziers Tourist Office also launched the Rallye Pinardier open day, when wine-lovers can step across the château’s threshold on a fun-packed visit.

To make the most of this outstanding property, why not enjoy a stay in one of the sublime guesthouses… or even rent the château for that special event?