Aloxe Corton
As soon as we got out of city of Beaune, we ran into a roundabout and crossed the main road and we headed into Aloxe Corton’s vineyards.
Aloxe-Corton is a small yet highly esteemed village in Burgundy's Côte de Beaune, celebrated for producing some of the region's finest wines, particularly those from the grand cru vineyards of Corton and Corton-Charlemagne. Located at the northern end of the Côte de Beaune, Aloxe-Corton is unique for its terroir, which combines limestone-rich soils and ideal slopes that produce deeply nuanced wines. This area is especially significant because it is one of the rare places in Burgundy that excels in both red and white wines.
Terroir and Appellations: The grand cru appellations of Corton and Corton-Charlemagne dominate this area. Corton is primarily known for its powerful, structured Pinot Noir, while Corton-Charlemagne is famed for its richly textured, mineral-driven Chardonnay. The varied soil compositions across the hillside lend distinct characteristics to each wine, even from neighboring parcels.
Wine Characteristics: Red wines from Corton are known for their depth, tannic structure, and aging potential, often described as bold with notes of dark berries, earthy undertones, and spices. Corton-Charlemagne whites are acclaimed for their richness, complexity, and vibrant acidity, often with flavors of citrus, green apple, and a characteristic mineral finish.
Historical Significance: Aloxe-Corton has a long history in wine production, with some vineyard sites dating back to Roman times. The region's wines gained significant prestige in the 8th century when Emperor Charlemagne reputedly donated some of the land to a local abbey, establishing Corton-Charlemagne’s historical and cultural significance.
Notable Domaines: Esteemed producers in Aloxe-Corton include Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Louis Latour, and Domaine Comte Senard, among others, each contributing to the area’s reputation for excellence in winemaking.
Aloxe-Corton stands out in Burgundy for its dual expertise in both Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grand crus, making it a prime destination for lovers of both red and white Burgundy wines.