Côte Chalonnaise

The Côte Chalonnaise is a wine region in Burgundy (Bourgogne), France, located just south of the Côte d’Or and north of the Mâconnais. It’s known for producing high-quality wines that are often more affordable than those from its prestigious northern neighbors.

Here’s a concise summary:

🗺️ Location & Geography

Lies between Chalon-sur-Saône (east) and the hills of the Morvan (west).
The vineyards are planted on limestone and marl soils, similar to the Côte d’Or, with southeast-facing slopes that maximize sun exposure.
The climate is continental, with slightly more variation in temperature and less protection from weather than the Côte d’Or.

🍇 Grapes & Wine Styles

Red wines: made primarily from Pinot Noir — often lighter, fruit-forward, and approachable.
White wines: made from Chardonnay — typically fresh, mineral, and less oaky than those from Meursault or Puligny-Montrachet.
A small amount of Aligoté and Crémant de Bourgogne (sparkling wine) are also produced.

🏘️ Key Villages (Appellations Communales)

Bouzeron – the only Burgundy AOC dedicated to Aligoté.
Rully – produces both Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, also a major center for Crémant de Bourgogne.
Mercurey – the largest and most important village; noted for structured, age-worthy Pinot Noir.
Givry – known for elegant, balanced reds; a favorite of Henri IV.
Montagny – exclusively white wines from Chardonnay, known for freshness and minerality.

🏷️ Appellations

Regional: Bourgogne Côte Chalonnaise AOC (for wines from across the area).
Village-level: the five communes listed above.
Premier Cru: several vineyards within the villages, especially in Mercurey, Givry, Rully, and Montagny.

🌿 Style & Character

Wines from Côte Chalonnaise often offer excellent value with classic Burgundy character.
Reds: lighter, cherry-driven, with soft tannins.
Whites: crisp, floral, and minerally, with moderate oak.