Côte de Beaune

Côte de Beaune is the southern half of the Côte d’Or in Burgundy, France. It is internationally known for prestigious Chardonnay wines, although it also produces important Pinot Noir. The region includes famous white-wine villages such as Meursault, Puligny-Montrachet and Chassagne-Montrachet, as well as red-wine appellations such as Pommard and Volnay.

Geography and appellations

The Côte de Beaune extends south from Ladoix-Serrigny toward the area around Santenay. Its vineyards occupy slopes with varied limestone, marl and clay soils, with exposure and elevation influencing style. Important village appellations include Aloxe-Corton, Pernand-Vergelesses, Beaune, Pommard, Volnay, Meursault, Puligny-Montrachet, Chassagne-Montrachet and Saint-Aubin.

Principal grape varieties

• Chardonnay: the principal white grape, producing wines from crisp and mineral to rich, barrel-fermented and age-worthy.
• Pinot Noir: used for red wines with red fruit, earthy notes and varying levels of structure.

Important vineyard classifications

Burgundy uses regional, village, Premier Cru and Grand Cru designations. Grand Cru sites include Corton and Corton-Charlemagne, while Le Montrachet and neighbouring Montrachet vineyards are among the region’s most famous white-wine sites. Premier Cru vineyards are designated within individual village appellations; the classification refers to vineyard origin rather than a universal taste profile.

Wine styles and food pairing

Côte de Beaune Chardonnay pairs with lobster, scallops, roast poultry, cream sauces and richer fish. Pinot Noir from Volnay can be elegant and perfumed, while Pommard is often more structured. Red wines pair with duck, pork, mushrooms and roast meats.

Example: serve Meursault with roast turbot or lobster, Puligny-Montrachet with scallops, and Volnay with roast duck.

Chef’s note: Côte de Beaune is not exclusively white Burgundy. Check the village, vineyard classification, producer and vintage before selecting a wine.