The Clos and The Château du Clos de Vougeot, Cellar of the Abbey of Cîteaux (English edition) by Benoît Chauvin

Introduction to an Architectural and Historical Masterpiece

The Clos and the Château de Vougeot, Abbey of Cîteaux Cellar, by Benoît Chauvin, provides a profound exploration of two of Burgundy’s architectural treasures. This book, published by Éditions du Tastevin, is a testament to the scientific and historical rigor applied to uncover the secrets of these storied sites. Divided into three key sections, it reveals the monumental legacy of Cistercian monks, their impact on viticulture, and the unique architectural features that define the Abbey of Cîteaux.

Science and History: A Scientific Approach to Architectural Discovery

In this section, Chauvin emphasizes the importance of a scientific approach to historical studies. Using dendrochronology to date timber structures and carbon-14 analysis on mortars, new details about construction phases are revealed. These studies, led by professional research bodies, have provided specific timelines for the cellar and wine press structures, enhancing our understanding of the Clos de Vougeot's architectural evolution. This commitment to science-driven research offers readers a groundbreaking perspective on Burgundy's heritage.

The Era of the Monks: Cistercian Influence on Clos de Vougeot

Chauvin then delves into the Cistercian impact, recounting how the monastic order of Cîteaux shaped the Clos and Château de Vougeot. Through careful archival research, he highlights the transformations influenced by Cistercian principles and the interplay between the monastic lifestyle and civil society. Readers are taken on a journey through social, economic, and demographic factors that influenced the development of the Château de Vougeot, illustrating the intertwined history of monastic and secular life over the centuries.

The Revisited Château: An Architectural and Visual Tour

The third chapter offers readers a comprehensive tour of the Château de Vougeot, unveiling architectural elements and furnishings previously overlooked. Through a series of targeted photographic campaigns, Chauvin captures architectural details that bring a new layer of appreciation to this historic site. This enriched, visual approach allows readers to experience the château beyond the typical tour, highlighting unique features that make the Château de Vougeot an exceptional place of cultural heritage.

About the Author

Selected for his dual expertise in literature and field research, Benoît Chauvin is a seasoned researcher at CNRS, focusing on Cistercian history and Burgundy's cultural heritage. Over the past four decades, Chauvin has published nearly two hundred articles, solidifying his reputation as a historian and viticulture expert. His long-standing connection with Burgundy is reflected in this comprehensive study, merging historical scholarship and a deep appreciation for the vineyards he once tended in Arbois.

Product Details

• Publisher: Éditions du Tastevin
• Publication Date: July 23, 2009
• Page Count: 222 pages
• Weight: 300 grams
• Language: English