René Bouchart had a singular vision: to capture the enchanting atmosphere of his beloved business trips to Tunisia within the elegant confines of the château. Thus, the Mauresque Dinning room, now transformed into a dining space for our Restaurant, was adorned in early 20th-century Rococo style. The stained-glass windows and intricate ornaments, crafted by the gifted Bordeaux artisans Chauffrey Père & Fils, showcase masterful artistry that continues to inspire.
Germaine, the cherished daughter of René and Marie, resided in the château with her husband, Émile Nérini, a distinguished music composer honoured with the French Legion of Honour, and their three daughters until 1937. Following this period, the château became the home of Maurice Alloo, a Belgian broker, who nurtured his family within its welcoming walls until the end of the Second World War.
In 1955, Maurice Alloo passed the torch to Georges Clément, a visionary distiller and poet from Gironde, who celebrated the performing arts within the château's grounds. The following year, Edmond Carrère embraced the château with the captivating motto from the French Brand Directory and Designations of Origin of Wine, Eaux-de-Vie and Spirits - 1941 (Annuaire des marques et appellations d'origine des vins, eaux-de-vie et spiritueux de France): « Qui me goûte m’aime et ne veut que moi », that loosely translates into "Those who experience me seek only my essence."
The 1990s ushered in an exciting era as intrepid hoteliers Mr. and Mrs. Friedrich Gross took the helm of Château Grand Barrail Lamarzelle Figeac, determined to weave magic into a hotel restaurant. Their ambitious restoration and conversion efforts began in 1992, with the noble goal of creating a unique and prestigious hotel amidst the breathtaking Saint-Émilion vineyards.
In 1993, the Château Hôtel Grand Barrail welcomed its first guests as a transformed 4-star hotel, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey. In April 1994, a new wing—brilliantly named La Résidence—was unveiled, adding to the allure of this remarkable destination. Grand Barrail has continually blossomed and evolved to the joy of all who visit. In autumn 2003, two exquisite annexes, La Maison du Vignoble and La Maison du Bien-Être, were introduced, creating a true paradise for the senses!
