Côte de Beaune

The Côte de Beaune is the heart of Burgundy , home to both great white and refined red wines. This region is renowned worldwide for its exceptional Chardonnay and elegant Pinot Noir, boasting an unparalleled diversity of styles and terroirs. From taut, mineral white wines to rich, creamy classics and refined red Burgundy , the Côte de Beaune forms the foundation of Burgundian excellence.

What is the Côte de Beaune?

The Côte de Beaune is the southern part of the Côte d'Or in Burgundy. The region extends from Ladoix-Serrigny in the north to Maranges in the south. The Côte de Beaune is distinguished by its versatility: some of the world's finest white wines are produced here, as well as elegant red wines with finesse and ageing potential.

What is the Côte de Beaune known for? Its world-famous Chardonnay and refined Pinot Noir wines, boasting great diversity and terroir expression.

Location and history

The Côte de Beaune boasts a winemaking history dating back to Roman times, but its international fame began in the Middle Ages. Over the centuries, the region developed a strong parcel-based approach, with each vineyard developing its own distinct identity.

Historical features:

• Centuries-old wine-growing tradition
• Development of the climate system
• International reputation from the 19th century
• Cradle of great white Burgundy

Vineyards and terroir

The terroir of the Côte de Beaune is exceptionally complex and explains the enormous variety of styles.

Key terroir characteristics:

• Calcareous soils with marl and clay
• South and southeast facing slopes
• Good drainage
• Protected climate with sufficient sun
• Height differences that preserve freshness

This combination makes the region ideal for both Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Main appellations

The Côte de Beaune is made up of a series of prestigious villages and appellations, each with its own style.

Well-known white wine appellations

• Puligny-Montrachet – tight, mineral and refined
• Chassagne-Montrachet – powerful with finesse
• Meursault – rich, creamy and complex
• Corton-Charlemagne – grand, structured and mineral

Well-known red wine appellations

• Volnay – elegant and refined
• Pommard – powerful and structured
• Beaune – classic and balanced
• Aloxe-Corton – firm with ageing potential

Grapes and styles

White wine from the Côte de Beaune

Chardonnay
• Ranging from tight and mineral to rich and creamy
• Often wood-matured, but always balanced
• Great complexity and length
• Excellent storage potential

Red wine from the Côte de Beaune

Pinot Noir
• Elegant to structured
• Fine tannins
• Aromatic precision
• Suitable for maturing

Stylistic features:
• Terroir over technique
• Finesse and balance
• Great diversity per village and vineyard

Classification

The Burgundian hierarchy is clearly visible in the Côte de Beaune.

• Village
• Premier Cru
• Grand Cru

Important Grand Crus in the region:
• Montrachet
• Chevalier-Montrachet
• Bâtard-Montrachet
• Corton
• Corton-Charlemagne

Vinification and philosophy

Winemakers in the Côte de Beaune work traditionally, with great attention to origin.

• Plot-oriented vinification
• Use of French oak
• Limited intervention
• Long maturation for balance
• Respect for climate and vintage

Storage and serving

Storage potential:
• White Premier Cru and Grand Cru: 10–25+ years
• Red wines: 8–20 years

Serving temperature :
• White wine: 12–14 degrees
• Red wine: 15–17 degrees

Decanting :
• Briefly aerate young top wines
• Pour mature bottles with care

Buy Côte de Beaune wine at Perfectewijn.nl

At Perfecte Wijn, you'll find wines from the Côte de Beaune for lovers of classic Burgundy with depth and finesse. From iconic Chardonnay to refined Pinot Noir, this region is the heart of Burgundian excellence and offers unparalleled variety for both casual drinkers and collectors.