I met Monique and Domique in Gevrey-Chambertin (zhuh-vray shahm-ber-tan) when I went for a shelter from a summer downpour. After the stormed cleared up, I followed them and went together visited Chateaus and villages along the way and stopped in Nuits-Saint-Georges. A glass of Pinot Noir together courtesy of Monique before I continued my own way to Volnay.

Vosne-Romanée 2020 refers to wines produced in the village of Vosne-Romanée, located in the Côte de Nuits subregion of Burgundy, France, from the 2020 vintage. Vosne-Romanée is renowned for producing some of the finest Pinot Noir wines in the world.

Region and Terroir

Location: Vosne-Romanée is situated in the heart of the Côte de Nuits, known for its exceptional red wines.
Vineyards: The village is home to several prestigious Grand Cru vineyards, including Romanée-Conti, La Tâche, Richebourg, and Romanée-Saint-Vivant.
Soil: The terroir consists of limestone and clay soils, which contribute to the complexity and elegance of the wines

Traveling by bike is the best way to move around and immerse oneself into the French countryside. The rolling hills and the landscape. landscape after taking the Loire river and its canals. My sister Tess and her friends didn’t have time to enjoy this scenic area . They got activities scheduled without experiencing the joy of biking in this region.

Biking in the Burgundy wine region of Côte d'Or (koht dor) is a delightful experience, combining scenic landscapes, cultural richness, and culinary delights. Here’s what you can expect:

Scenic Routes and Landscapes

Vineyards and Countryside: The region is renowned for its rolling vineyards, picturesque villages, and lush countryside. As you cycle, you’ll pass through world-famous vineyards like those in Beaune, Pommard, and Gevrey-Chambertin.
Canal Paths: The Canal de Bourgogne offers serene and flat paths perfect for leisurely biking, with beautiful views of the water and surrounding greenery.
Hillier Terrain: For those seeking a challenge, the Côte d'Or has some hilly areas that offer rewarding views from the top.

Cultural and Historical Richness

Historic Towns: Towns like Beaune are rich in history and architecture. Beaune itself is known for the Hospices de Beaune, a former charitable almshouse now converted into a museum.
Châteaux and Estates: You can visit numerous châteaux, many of which have wine cellars open for tastings. Château de Pommard and Clos de Vougeot are notable stops.
Romanesque Churches: The region is dotted with beautiful Romanesque churches and abbeys, like the Abbey of Fontenay.

Culinary Delights

Wine Tastings: Being in one of the world’s most renowned wine regions, wine tasting is a must. Many vineyards offer tastings and tours, where you can sample Burgundy’s famous Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Local Cuisine: The local cuisine is a highlight. You can enjoy dishes like coq au vin, escargots, and regional cheeses such as Époisses.
Markets and Bistros: Local markets and bistros offer fresh produce, artisanal products, and a chance to interact with locals.

Practical Considerations

Bike Rentals and Tours: There are many options for bike rentals, and numerous guided tours are available for those who prefer a structured experience.
Route Planning: Routes like the "Voie des Vignes" (Vineyard Way) are well-marked and cater to different skill levels, from leisurely rides to more challenging routes.
Accommodation: There are various accommodation options, from charming bed-and-breakfasts in historic towns to luxurious hotels nestled among the vineyards.

Best Time to Visit

Spring and Fall: These are ideal times for biking, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, especially during the grape harvest in September and October.
Summer: While the weather is warmer, it’s also the peak tourist season, so some areas may be more crowded.

Summary

Biking in Côte d'Or is an immersive experience, allowing you to explore the heart of Burgundy at your own pace. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who enjoys beautiful landscapes, this region has something to offer.

Explore Côte d'Or