Established in 1936, the Beaune AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) encompasses the vineyards surrounding the historic town of Beaune itself, covering 414 hectares. Red wines dominate the landscape with Pinot Noir vines covering 355 hectares, of which an impressive 270 are classified as premier cru. Chardonnay also makes its mark here, with 58 hectares devoted to white wine production, 40 of which are premier cru. Let’s delve into its history and the fine wines that shape its identity…
The appellation in a nutshell
The history of the Beaune appellation stretches back to the Middle Ages when the monks of Cîteaux Abbey first began cultivating vines in the region. Over the centuries, Burgundy rose to international renown for the exceptional quality of its wines, with Beaune establishing itself as one of the region’s most celebrated terroirs.
Here, red wines are crafted from Pinot Noir grapes, while white wines draw their distinctive character from Chardonnay. The landscape is defined by rolling hills and valleys, with clay-limestone soils rich in minerals.
Beaune wines are defined by their elegance and finesse, combined with the depth and structure to mature gracefully over many years. It is no easy feat to offer a single portrait of Beaune wines, given the diversity of its many climats. So, here are some of the leading Premier Crus of the appellation, with notes on their distinctive characters:
- Les Grèves: This premier cru stretches across the upper slopes before gently descending to the south-east. The wines typically reveal a deep hue, with aromas of red fruits and undergrowth, supported by a well-defined tannic structure.
Browse all wines from Les Grèves Premier Cru
- Les Bressandes: This premier cru lies on an east-facing hillside with shallow, clay-limestone soils strewn with stones. The wines here are known for their elegance and complexity, offering aromas of red fruits and floral notes and strong ageing potential.
Browse all wines from Les Bressandes Premier Cru
- Le Clos des Mouches: This premier cru lies on a mid-slope terroir located near the village of Pommard. The red wines are concentrated and intense, with a noble texture that lends character without sacrificing finesse, resulting in a wine of considerable elegance. The white wines are rich and opulent, offering honeyed notes balanced by vibrant acidity.
Browse all wines from Clos des Mouches Premier Cru
- Les Teurons: Situated on a south-west-facing slope, this premier cru rests on clay-limestone and silty soils. The red wines are rich and powerful, with aromas of black fruits and spices. The white wines are fruity and floral, evolving towards intense notes of hazelnut and toasted almond.
Browse all wines from Les Teurons Premier Cru
- Les Cents Vignes: This premier cru lies on a gentle south-east-facing slope, with clay-limestone soils over marl subsoil. The wines are elegant and refined, bursting with red fruit and subtle undergrowth aromas. The fruit takes centre stage, delivering a fleshy, seductive character that offers immediate pleasure. A modest amount of white wine is also produced here, rich and opulent, balanced by a bright acidity that lifts the finish.
Browse all wine from Les Cents Vignes Premier Cru
The most extensive appellation in the Côte d’Or, with its 42 premier crus, can often feel overwhelming for wine enthusiasts due to the sheer number and variety of its parcels. Yet it would be a great shame to overlook it, as this appellation boasts countless gems, many striking a fine balance between enjoyment and price.
