In 1820 Bernard Bouchard purchased the Château de Beaune, a former royal fortress built in the 15th century by King Louis XI.
Four of the five original towers of the fortress, as well as parts of the ramparts, still stand today, and have featured on the list of historic monuments since 1937.

The cellars run deep underground beneath the property providing ideal natural storage conditions for Bouchard Père & Fils’ fine wines.
Up to 10 metres deep, the wines develop and age undisturbed. These include a unique collection of over 2,000 bottles from the 19thcentury. A priceless historical legacy with, as its icon, the oldest wine – a Meursault Charmes 1846 which still retains its luster.
Over time, by acquiring various terroirs with great care and patience, Bouchard Père & Fils has built up the biggest domaine in the Côte d’Or. Today the estate boasts 130 hectares of vines, of which 12 are classed Grand Cru and 74 classed as Premier Cru.

An attractive story is told about this appellation: Charlemagne was very fond of the wine from Le Corton which at the time was red. Towards the end of the Emperor's life the vineyards facing south were planted with Chardonnay to produce a white wine to avoid staining his white beard. In 1909 Bouchard Pere & Fils acquired 60% of the prestigious vineyard at Le Corton which has the rare particularity of being planted with either Pinot Noir or Chardonnay.

Bouchard Pere & Fils are the third most important owner in Corton-Charlemagne with 3.65 hectares.