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Six-time NBA (National Basketball Association) All-Star Tony Parker buys Château Saint Laurent near Avignon in the south of France. He plans to produce and market his own wines there in the future.
The French national basketball player, also known for his now-divorced marriage to actress Eva Longoria ("Desperate Housewives"), says he has "always loved the Rhône Valley" and also fell in love with "Château Saint Laurent as soon as I saw it, and I'm now fully committed to making some amazing wines."
The estate has 40 hectares of vineyards planted with classic Rhône varieties such as Syrah, Grenache, Cinsault, Viognier and Roussanne. Château Saint Laurent was built in the 14th century, when the counter-popes ruled in Avignon. Allegedly, a 10 km underground passage leads from the estate to the famous Palais des Papes in the centre of the city. From 1 June 2023, the Château will be open for private parties, weddings and conferences.
Parker has also been involved in Château La Mascaronne in Provence since the beginning of the year. There he is partner of Michel Reybier, owner of Château Cos d'Estournel *****. In the meantime, some NBA players are involved in the wine community, among others Carmelo Anthony and CJ McCollum.
(al / Source: decanter; Photo: Château Saint Laurent)