Located right in the heart of the medieval village of St Emilion, in a resolutely contemporary décor, L'Essentiel proposes its unique concept of a wine and wine-tasting bar.

In an eye-catching art deco atmosphere, the 300 or so bottles from Bordeaux and prestigious vineyards around the world are presented along a wall in the shape of a wave.

Wine lovers can buy the wines and spirits from our collection, or taste a glass of Bordeaux Premiers Grands Crus such as Ausone, Cheval Blanc, Valandraud, Yquem and many others.

A selection of matured cheeses supplied by Jean D’Alos puts the sublime finishing touch to the tasting session, along with a choice of delicatessen.

The first part of the boutique features a counter facing the bottles, while the lounge offers a cosier, more intimate atmosphere.

L’Essentiel also proposes an original range of glassware and wine accessories.

Philosophy

The idea behind this new concept was to design a place focussed on pleasure, on wine and the pleasures of wine.

To stimulate all the senses, colours, design and music all make their contribution, while the wine and cheese provide delights for the senses of taste and smell.

The bottle here becomes a work of art and is elevated to the rank of a luxury product - rare yet accessible for all winelovers since it can be enjoyed by the glass.

The People

Bruno Baillarguet of the Vignobles et Châteaux boutiques, and Jean Luc Thunevin of Château Valandraud were the initiators of this project, handing its creation over to Bordeaux designer Bruno Dolis.

Juan Carlos Ferreira manages the boutique.