Aigle is the capital of Chablais which is a wine-growing region, south-east of Geneva. It produces some of Switzerland's best wines. The arrival of the railway in 1858 and three lines of "small trains" in the 20th century contributed to the tourist and economic development of the town. On the Grande Eau, a lock which fed into two channels provided water generated power for the factories of Cloitre and the burough. There was also a timber dock. The 12th century castle, the Chateau d'Aigle dominates the town. It now houses the Musee de la Vigne et du Vin.