The Franciscan monks, known as Cordeliers due to the knotted rope (corde) worn around their waists, established the monastery in 1267.
The subterranean galleries reach depths of up to 20 meters below the village street level.
The limestone tunnels were originally excavated in the 17th century to provide stone for local construction, later becoming ideal cool storage for sparkling wine.
The monastery was declared a French historical monument in 2005.
The sparkling wine production here follows the 'Méthode Traditionnelle', the same process used for Champagne.
The Cloître des Cordeliers is a 14th-century former Franciscan monastery located within the medieval walls of Saint-Émilion. The site features original Gothic architecture, including a vaulted cloister and a ruined chapel. It serves as the production site for Cordeliers sparkling wine, which is aged in underground limestone quarries beneath the monastery. Visitors can tour the subterranean galleries where the traditional method secondary fermentation occurs. The property occupies a central position within the UNESCO World Heritage-listed village. The gardens and interior courtyard provide sheltered outdoor seating for wine tastings and picnics.
The arched Gothic windows overlooking the interior garden provide the most iconic framing for photographs.
Bring a light sweater or jacket for the underground tours, as the limestone quarries remain cool regardless of the outside temperature.
Purchase a picnic basket on-site to enjoy local products and wine in the monastery gardens.
Book the guided tour of the underground caves in advance, especially during the summer peak season.
Do not attempt to access the underground caves without a guided tour, as they are part of a private, active production facility.
The underground tours are seasonal and may have limited availability during the winter months.
Maintain a respectful tone within the ruins and near the private wine production areas.
