Vélo Notes

As I arrived in Gevrey-Chambertin, the sky was growing dark, signaling an impending storm. Sure enough, as soon as I reached the village, the heavens opened up in a torrential downpour—a classic summer thunderstorm. I quickly leaned my bike against a corner and dashed for cover. I ended up finding shelter with two women in a nearby building, and we passed the time chatting while waiting for the rain to let up.

Eventually, the rain stopped, and we said our goodbyes. I considered heading to a familiar spot for a glass of wine—I'd enjoyed one there before on my way to Dijon—but they were still in the process of setting up their terrace after the storm. So, I decided to move on. Not long after, I ran into Monique and Dominique again, the same two women from earlier. Together, we made a stop at Château du Clos de Vougeot along the way.

Vougeot (voo-zhaw) is a small, picturesque commune located in the Côte-d'Or department in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region of eastern France. It is best known for its wine production, particularly for the prestigious Clos de Vougeot vineyard. Here are some key points about Vougeot:

1. Wine Production:

Clos de Vougeot: The most famous vineyard in Vougeot is Clos de Vougeot, a Grand Cru vineyard that is renowned worldwide. It produces some of the finest red wines made from Pinot Noir grapes. The vineyard is enclosed by a stone wall, which is a defining feature of many historic Burgundy vineyards.
Terroir: The terroir of Vougeot is exceptional, with a mix of limestone and clay soils that contribute to the complexity and richness of the wines. The vineyard’s microclimate is also ideal for growing Pinot Noir.
Wine Estates: Clos de Vougeot is unique in that it is divided among multiple owners, each producing wine under their own label but from the same vineyard. This can result in a variety of styles and expressions of the terroir.

2. Historical Significance:

Château du Clos de Vougeot: This historic château, located within the vineyard, dates back to the 12th century. It was originally built by Cistercian monks from the nearby Abbey of Cîteaux. Today, it serves as the headquarters of the Confrérie des Chevaliers du Tastevin, a prestigious wine society.
Cistercian Heritage: The monks of Cîteaux played a significant role in the development of viticulture in Burgundy. Their meticulous methods and dedication to quality laid the foundation for the region’s reputation as one of the world’s premier wine-producing areas.

3. Tourism and Culture:

Wine Tours and Tastings: Vougeot is a popular destination for wine enthusiasts. Visitors can tour the Château du Clos de Vougeot, explore the historic wine presses and cellars, and participate in wine tastings.
Events: The village hosts various wine-related events throughout the year, including the famous "Chapter of the Chevaliers du Tastevin," where members of the wine society gather to celebrate Burgundy’s wine culture.
Scenic Beauty: Vougeot is set amidst rolling vineyards and picturesque countryside, making it a beautiful place to visit. The village itself is quaint, with charming streets and historic buildings.

4. Geography:

Location: Vougeot is situated in the Côte de Nuits subregion of Burgundy, between the villages of Chambolle-Musigny and Flagey-Echézeaux. It is part of the Route des Grands Crus, a scenic wine route that runs through some of Burgundy’s most famous vineyards.

5. Gastronomy:

Local Cuisine: The region is known for its excellent cuisine, which pairs beautifully with the local wines. Traditional dishes include escargots de Bourgogne, coq au vin, and beef bourguignon.
Dining: Vougeot and the surrounding villages offer several fine dining restaurants where visitors can enjoy gourmet meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

6. Community and Lifestyle:

Small Village Charm: Vougeot is a small, tight-knit community with a population of just a few hundred residents. The village retains a traditional, rural charm, with a lifestyle centered around viticulture and agriculture.
Hospitality: The people of Vougeot are known for their hospitality, welcoming visitors who come to explore the vineyards and experience the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Vougeot is a quintessential part of Burgundy's wine heritage, offering a blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and exceptional wines. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the world of fine wine and the rich traditions of Burgundy.

Vougeot