Domaine de la Baume and its folly, set amidst France’s largest vineyard close to Béziers, do justice to the exclusive wines produced by the Helfrichs.

Domaine de la Baume, founded in the 19th century by Jean Prat and his sons, was acquired in 2003 by Joseph Helfrich, the visionary boss of the Grands Chais de France. And so this native of Alsace began his adventure in Languedoc, putting together a highly diverse wine-growing heritage and a wealth of outstanding terroirs. A man of conviction with a strong attachment to these lands, Joseph produces high-quality wines that are representative of their region of origin, which he promotes worldwide.

Joseph grows grape varieties typical of the Languedoc-Roussillon region on the 176 hectares of his HVE-classified vineyard, including Cabernet-Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Viognier. Domaine de la Baume keeps the wine-growing traditions alive, and with its Qualité Tourisme certification, it is one of the driving forces behind this tourist destination. The estate’s fresh and aromatic white wines, together with its round and fruity rosés and reds, are enjoyed in the finest Parisian establishments, including in the Barrière Group and the Marriott.

Following extensive renovation work on the estate, the folly has undergone a renaissance and now hosts first-class wine and vine events and activities. The follies of Languedoc are manor houses built in a lavish architectural style that reflect the erstwhile riches of the region's wine merchants. The new cellar now serves as the showcase not just for wines from Baume, but also the bottles produced on all the other properties belonging to the family (Minervois, Terrasses du Larzac, Limoux, Saint-Jean de Minervois, Costières de Nîmes and so forth).

Everything has been redesigned to offer visitors a warm welcome and elegant hospitality with new meeting and tasting rooms, wine bars and landscaped terraces where guests can enjoy an appetising interlude with food and wine pairings. Visitors can make the most of this magical venue all year round on a guided tour or a self-guided visit following the signposted path in the surrounding vineyard. Special events for foodies and themed nights - not to mention a pétanque court - are also sure to be a source of delight!