Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy, is a name that resonates strongly among lovers of fine wines. Located in the center of the Côte de Beaune, this historic city is surrounded by the most prestigious vineyards. While the city is world-renowned, its wines are less so, and that's a shame. This image has been tarnished by neglected vintages from some of the major Beaune wineries, also major wineries in this appellation. As is often the case, we must avoid generalization. The terroirs have their potential, and many winemakers manage to maximize it.

The appellations of Beaune

The Beaune appellation is primarily known for its red wines made from Pinot Noir, but it also produces elegant white wines made from Chardonnay. Beaune wines fall into two categories:

• Village Appellations : typical Burgundy wines, characterized by their finesse and balance.
• Premiers Crus : among the most famous, we find:
• The Strikes
• Clos des Mouches
• The Bressandes
• The Teurons

Each Premier Cru expresses the diversity and richness of Beaune's terroirs, with unique characteristics. For example, I produce a Beaune 1er Cru Boucherottes . My plot is located just below the highly regarded Clos des Mouches. Yields are low and ripening can be very rapid. Tasting the wine blind, I think many tasters would be surprised by this appellation.

The specificities of the Beaune terroir

The Beaune terroir is distinguished by a great diversity of soils, which allows for the production of wines with varied profiles. Here are the characteristics of this terroir:

• Soils : limestone marl, clay soils, and other variations that influence the personality of the wines.
• Red wines : aromas of red fruits, undergrowth, sometimes liquorice, with a beautiful structure.
• White wines : floral notes, white-fleshed fruits, a marked minerality.

These wines are known for their balance, elegance, and ability to age well.

Anecdotes about the Hospices de Beaune

As mentioned above, while the Beaune appellation doesn't enjoy much renown, the city is renowned worldwide for its history and heritage. The famous Hospices de Beaune, founded in 1443, are an architectural and cultural gem. Here are some highlights:

• Origin: Nicolas Rollin and Guigone de Salins and Nicolas Rollin are the founders of this building representing their faith and their love
• Fame: it comes largely from its polychrome tiles, which give the building an iconic roof, a strong symbol of Burgundy
• Cinema : the cult scene "Dites 33" from the film "La grande vadrouille" with Louis de Funès and Bourvil was filmed at the Hospices in the large poor room of the Hôtel-Dieu
• Event : The Hospices de Beaune wine auction, a globally anticipated event every year

Beaune to drink

Beaune is the living symbol of Burgundy wine, where each bottle tells a story of passion, terroir, and tradition.

Have you ever drunk Beaune? Given its less-than-stellar image, I recommend this appellation to find great value for money.

Explore my online store to discover the various Beaune appellations produced by the estate. Let yourself be seduced by the richness and complexity of these great Burgundy wines.