Our story

The genesis of the domain

A winegrower for several generations, it was Albert Despres in 1965 who built the estate's site with a modern winery. He uses gravity to vinify whole bunches without the use of pumps that could damage the harvest too much.

The origins of the name “Domaine de la Madone”

The estate takes its name from the small chapel erected at the top of the hill overlooking the village of Fleurie. Topped with a statue of the Virgin Mary, it dates from 1866 and was built by the winegrowers to protect the vines against powdery mildew (a vine disease). The vines planted on this hill bear the name of the classified climat “La Madone”. Arnaud’s great-great-grandfather was among the winegrowers who hauled the statue to the top with the help of their oxen.

Extension and development

The estate was then taken over by Jean Marc Despres, the son, who continued the operation of the estate by developing bottled sales and exports.

Le cuvage sera agrandi à la suite de la construction dans les années 90.

Niagara Estate

Arnaud, le fils de Jean Marc développe le domaine et reprend le “Domaine du Niagara”, 5 HA de vigne sur la colline la plus Haute de Fleurie ! Le domaine s’étend maintenant sur 18HA de Fleurie

The reward!

The Fleurie Vieilles Madone 2005 has won the highest international distinction.

New and unique vintage in Fleurie

First vineyard of the “Viognier” grape variety planted on the Fleurie terroir
and more specifically on the Madone hillside.
This sloping plot is cultivated without herbicides, entirely plowed and hoed by hand.

Creation of the Inn

It offers a panoramic view of the vineyard and the Saône Valley.

“ It is with the greatest joy that I welcome you to the Auberge de La Madone since 2012.

My winemaking spirit has made it a simple and friendly place, where people enjoy eating or meeting up for a drink.

Fleurie, my village, renowned for its great wines, its art of living, its ties to local produce and its sumptuous landscapes, delights me every day.

I deeply love my region and my dearest wish is to share it with you.

I hope to welcome you for a pleasant time at Fleuriaton.”

Arnaud Despres

Our trophies!

The Inn of the Madone Estate wins the Bronze medal at the Terre de Vins wine tourism trophy in the vineyard restaurant category.

The estate is HVE3 certified and organic for the Viognier!

The vines are cultivated in a way that prioritizes quality while respecting the environment. Significant efforts are currently being made in vine management to improve grape ripening and increase biodiversity. The estate is now certified High Environmental Value (HVE level 3)

The grapes are harvested by hand by around thirty pickers and are rigorously sorted to keep only the ripest and healthiest. Arnaud Despres vinifies his wine traditionally and in accordance with the ancestral rules of the appellation, highlighting the terroir and the fruit. This allows him to obtain a fruity wine with good aging potential. After aging in tanks or barrels for 6 months to 2 years, depending on the vintage, the wine is bottled at the estate.

Creation of the Wine Cellar Boutique area

New tasting area!

We have been welcoming you to our brand new tasting room and shop since 2023. Here you will find our entire range of wines for tasting, estate souvenirs, local products from the inn, and more.

2025: First year of organic conversion for part of our Fleurie

Contact us for a unique experience

Whether you wish to visit our cellar, reserve a table at the inn, or simply stop by to taste our wines in our shop, we would be delighted to welcome you. Contact us today to experience a unique moment centered around wine.

A certified
domain

Certified HVE3 and Organic for our Viognier and part of our Fleurie, we cultivate our wines with respect for the environment.
A family vineyard

The Despres family has been passing down its expertise for six generations.
Des vins de qualité

We offer quality wines, including our Fleurie Vieilles Vignes Madone 2005, which has won the highest international award!
A winegrowers' inn in the heart of the vineyards

Enjoy a table recommended by Bistrot Beaujolais and Petit Futé with a panoramic view.

Also see:

Our wines