The Côte Chalonnaise vineyard, like that of Burgundy as a whole, has been planted for a very long time. As early as the 6th century, wines from the Givry region enjoyed great renown. Henry IV himself was a great admirer. The beauty of the landscapes and the historical and cultural heritage blend harmoniously here, paying homage to the past of the production area. A charming marriage of hillsides, meadows, forests and medieval châteaux is discovered.
The Côte Chalonnaise production zone extends over 25 kilometres in length and 7 kilometres in width. Located between the Côte de Beaune to the north and the Mâconnais hills to the south, it is the natural extension of the Côte d'Or. Great similarities in geological formations are found here. The predominantly clay-limestone soils derive from the limestone rock base dating from the Jurassic era. Benefiting from a granitic subsoil, the vineyard is cultivated on limestone hillsides composed of clay, marls and sand.
These vines, planted on the eastern face of the Massif Central, are essentially from the grape varieties Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. In addition to the favourable soils, they are subject to a temperate climate with continental influence. Summers are warm and autumns drier, encouraging good grape ripening.
This emblematic red grape variety of Burgundy represents 34% of the region's cultivation. It is planted on less clay brown soils, particularly around Mercurey, Givry and part of Rully. Almost certainly cultivated since the very creation of the vineyard, it is the basis of the renown of all the great local red wines. It is recognisable by its compact bunches of small, tightly packed grains. Of a fine black-violet colour, it produces a delicious sweet juice.
The reds are distinguished by their fragrances of small red and black fruits. On the palate, the texture is firm and beautiful roundness is detected. Acidity and tannins balance perfectly. The whites first impress with their grey-gold reflections. Aromas of white flowers, citrus and dried fruits meet harmoniously. The lively, forthright attack gives way to structure and richness, digestible and pleasant on the palate.
For importers and wine merchants wishing to offer genuine Burgundy at reasonable prices, the Côte Chalonnaise is a prime territory. Its Mercurey, Givry, Rully and Montagny appellations offer excellent Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, often compared to their Côte d'Or counterparts, but at considerably more accessible prices. An excellent quality-to-price ratio that will seduce a discerning clientele without the means for the great Grands Crus.
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