Beaumont Winery
Nestled on the fertile slopes of Cyneraf Island in the Edison Archipelago, the Beaumont Winery is a celebrated producer of fine wines and one of the oldest family-owned estates in the region. Known for its volcanic soil, temperate climate, and dedication to quality, the winery has become synonymous with elegance and tradition.
History and Origins
The Beaumont Family established the winery shortly after fleeing the Red Revolution in Ashwall. Lord Sebastien Thomas Beaumont arrived in Edison with his family and a vision: to recreate the lush vineyards of his homeland. In 1818, just a year before the Burn, the family acquired a prime stretch of land on Cynefar Island , known for its unique soil enriched by the volcanic activity of Mt. Cerberus .
Despite the challenges posed by the Burn, the Beaumont Winery thrived, providing sustenance and employment to many during the difficult years. The winery’s survival and growth are attributed to the resilience of its Ashwall grape varietals, which proved resistant to drought and harsh conditions.
The Estate
The Beaumont Estate spans over 250 hectares, with 100 hectares dedicated to vineyards, while the rest is a mixture of lush gardens, olive groves, and small orchards. The estate is a testament to the family’s Ashwall heritage, blending rustic charm with the refined aesthetics of Edison architecture.
The main winery building, a beautiful stone structure with large arched windows, houses the production facilities, cellars, and a tasting room that overlooks the rolling vineyards. Beneath the winery lies a vast underground cellar, storing barrels of aging wine in perfect conditions. A secret cellar, hidden from all but trusted family members, safeguards the estate’s rarest and most precious vintages.
The Port
A key to the success of the Beaumont Winery is its private port, strategically located upriver, deep from the north shore of Cyneraf Island. This location offers natural protection from the rough sea currents of the Edison Archipelago while providing easy access to the island’s fertile interior.
During the Burn, the private port played a pivotal role in distributing food and wine to struggling communities, reinforcing the Beaumont family’s reputation for generosity. Today, small cargo vessels ferry the winery’s products to Edison’s markets, the Thierry Free States, and even the Willfair Isles, ensuring the Beaumont name is known far beyond the Archipelago.
The Beaumont Lighthouse
At the mouth of the northern river leading to the Beaumont Estate’s private port, a fortified lighthouse stands as both a navigational aid and a defensive structure. Built shortly after the Burn, the lighthouse serves as the first line of defense for the winery and its vital trade routes.
Constructed from volcanic stone sourced from Mount Cerberus, the lighthouse features a small cannon emplacement on its midsection balcony, allowing guards to deter approaching threats. The structure also anchors a harbor chain, a massive retractable barrier that stretches across the river’s entrance. The chain, reinforced with electrum-alloy links, can be raised or lowered to control access to the river. This formidable combination ensures that any vessel attempting to enter without permission faces significant resistance.
The lighthouse and harbor chain, manned by a small contingent of guards, provide peace of mind to the Beaumont family and their trade partners, ensuring that the estate’s operations remain safe from pirates and brigands that often prowl the Altian Ocean.
The Wines
The Beaumont Winery is renowned for its masterful production of wines that reflect the unique terroir of the volcanic soils of Cyneraf Island. Each wine offers a distinct profile, crafted with care to embody the spirit of the land and the legacy of the Beaumont family.
Cerberus Reserve (Red)
Description:
Named after the fiery Mount Cerberus, this bold red wine is the flagship product of the winery. Crafted from a unique blend of volcanic Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, the Cerberus Reserve boasts a deep ruby hue and a complex flavor profile.
Tasting Notes:
Rich with notes of dark cherry, black currant, and hints of volcanic ash, it finishes with a smoky, peppery kick. The balanced tannins and vibrant acidity make it a perfect pairing for roasted meats or hearty stews.
Aging:
Barrel-aged for 12 years in charred oak casks lined with electrum, which enhances its earthy, mineral undertones.
Availability:
Highly sought after, the Cerberus Reserve is primarily reserved for exclusive clientele and annual auctions.
Lunaris Blanc (White)
Description:
The Lunaris Blanc is a crisp, aromatic white wine inspired by the silvery glow of Mene, the moon of Nyria. The wine is made from Moonvine Chardonnay grapes, a variety known for its delicate floral notes.
Tasting Notes:
Bright and zesty, with flavors of green apple, citrus blossoms, and a whisper of honeysuckle, it offers a clean, refreshing finish.
Aging:
Fermented in volcanic stone vats to preserve its light, vibrant character.
Availability:
Favored for summer gatherings and seaside picnics, Lunaris Blanc is widely distributed across the Eldwell Empire.
Phoenix Amber (Orange)
Description:
The Phoenix Amber is an experimental wine that pays homage to the winery’s resilience. Made from amber-skinned Altian Muscat grapes, it undergoes extended skin contact during fermentation to develop its distinctive hue and flavor.
Tasting Notes:
Complex and slightly tannic, with notes of dried apricots, orange peel, and a touch of smoky caramel. It has a bold, lingering finish that pairs well with spiced dishes and cured meats.
Aging:
Aged in amphorae buried in volcanic soil, imparting a faint minerality.
Availability:
Produced in limited quantities and available exclusively through the winery’s public events program.
Golden Solis (Dessert Wine)
Description:
Golden Solis is a luscious dessert wine made from sun-dried Zestiva grapes, harvested at their peak ripeness. It’s a tribute to the life-giving sun, Solis, and its warm glow.
Tasting Notes:
Rich and syrupy, with notes of honey, dried figs, and candied oranges, balanced by a subtle acidity that keeps it from being overly sweet.
Aging:
Matured in small barrels for five years, the wine develops a silky texture and concentrated flavors.
Availability:
A favorite for celebrations, it is often gifted during festivals and sold in decorative bottles shaped like Solis’ rays.
Harvest Glow (Rosé)
Description:
Harvest Glow is a lively, aromatic rosé made from a mix of Cerulean Pinot Noir and Flame Grenache grapes. It captures the beauty of Cyneraf’s sunsets during harvest season.
Tasting Notes:
Bursting with flavors of ripe strawberries, watermelon, and a hint of rose petals, it’s refreshingly light and pairs well with seafood or light salads.
Aging:
Briefly aged in stainless steel tanks to preserve its fruity, vibrant character.
Availability:
Popular among casual drinkers, it’s one of the most widely distributed wines from the Beaumont Winery.
Cyneraf Noir (Sparkling)
Description:
This sparkling red wine is a tribute to the volcanic island itself. Made using the traditional Méthode Eldwell, Cyneraf Noir is a rare sparkling red that exudes elegance and effervescence.
Tasting Notes:
Hints of ripe blackberries, plums, and a touch of spice are accentuated by fine bubbles. It’s an excellent pairing for festive meals or celebrations.
Aging:
Undergoes a secondary fermentation in the bottle, aged for three years in the cool cellars of the winery.
Availability:
Exclusive to the winery’s events and special occasions, it is a collector’s favorite.
Mene’s Moonlight
Mene’s Moonlight Rosé is a delicate and ethereal wine crafted as a tribute to the moonlit nights of the Edison Archipelago. This rosé is made from Silvervine Grenache grapes, harvested under the full moon of Mene to preserve their gentle aroma and natural acidity. It has become a cherished favorite during the elegant gatherings of the Lantern Society, embodying refinement and grace.
Tasting Notes:
Light and floral, with flavors of wild strawberries, white peaches, and a faint hint of lavender. Its crisp acidity and smooth finish make it a perfect pairing for light canapés and fresh seafood.
Aging:
Aged briefly in volcanic stone vats to maintain its purity and delicate flavors. The unique fermentation process imbues the wine with a soft, glowing hue reminiscent of moonlight on water.
Availability:
Primarily reserved for high-society events and exclusive Lantern Society galas, this rosé is available in limited quantities each year and often sold out long before release.
Mene’s Moonlight Rosé captures the serene beauty and romance of moonlit nights, making it a perfect complement to Cyneraf Island’s legacy of elegance and mystery.
Volcanic Advantage
The proximity to Mount Cerberus provides the winery with unique advantages. The volcanic soil, rich in minerals, imparts a distinctive flavor profile to the wines. Additionally, the natural heat from the region extends the growing season, allowing the grapes to achieve optimal ripeness. The warm sea breezes further enhance the quality, creating a microclimate perfect for viticulture.
Tourism and Events
The Beaumont Winery is not just a place of production but also a popular destination for visitors. The estate offers:
• Tasting Tours: Guests can sample the winery’s offerings while learning about the family’s history and winemaking process.
• Seasonal Festivals: The annual Grape Harvest Festival draws visitors from across Edison to participate in grape stomping, enjoy live music, and savor local delicacies.
• Private Events: The estate’s gardens and banquet hall are available for weddings, celebrations, and exclusive Lantern Society gatherings.
Family Legacy
Now under the stewardship of Morgana Beaumont, the winery continues to uphold its legacy while embracing modern innovation. Morgana’s expertise in botany and alchemy has brought new experimental blends to the portfolio, ensuring the winery remains at the forefront of the industry.
A Bright Future
The Beaumont Winery is more than a business; it is a testament to resilience, heritage, and the pursuit of excellence. With its commitment to quality and the enduring legacy of the Beaumont family, the winery stands as a shining gem in the Edison Archipelago, offering a taste of history in every glass.
I love, love, love this article. Coming from a wine country myself, I adore how you described the estate and everything around it. And the description of the wines is awesome. Those pictures are a whole other level. Can I please get a bottle of all of them?!