Discovering Hautes-Côtes de Bourgogne
Nestled in the heart of Burgundy, France, the Hautes-Côtes de Bourgogne region offers a picturesque escape for wine enthusiasts. This lesser-known appellation produces exceptional wines at more affordable prices than its famous neighbors.
Towns and Villages
The region boasts charming villages with rich histories and stunning views. Nolay, a medieval town, features a 15th-century covered market and serves as an excellent base for exploring the area.
Orches, perched on a hilltop, offers panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards. Don’t miss the 12th-century Romanesque church of Saint-Martin.
Wine Producers
- Domaine Naudin-Ferrand: Known for organic and biodynamic practices
- Domaine Lucien Jacob: Family-run estate producing excellent Hautes-Côtes de Beaune
- Domaine Chevrot: Focuses on sustainable viticulture and minimal intervention winemaking
Most producers offer tastings by appointment. Contact them directly to arrange visits and sample their wines.
Accommodations
La Cueillette in Meursault offers luxurious rooms with vineyard views and a spa featuring grape-based treatments. For a more intimate experience, try Le Clos de la Challangette, a charming B&B in a restored 18th-century winemaker’s house.
Budget-conscious travelers can find comfortable lodging at Hôtel de la Poste in Beaune, which provides easy access to the Hautes-Côtes region.
Dining
Le Terminus in Beaune serves traditional Burgundian cuisine paired with an extensive local wine list. For a more casual experience, try Le Bistrot du Bord de l’Eau in Levernois, known for its riverside terrace and seasonal menu.
Don’t miss La Table de Levernois, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative dishes that highlight regional ingredients and wines.
Wine Shops & Bars
La Cave de l’Ange Gardien in Beaune offers an extensive selection of local wines, including rare vintages. The knowledgeable staff provides excellent recommendations.
Le Bar à Vin in Nolay features a rotating selection of Hautes-Côtes de Bourgogne wines by the glass, perfect for sampling the region’s offerings.
Other Shops
La Fromagerie Hess in Beaune sells local cheeses that pair well with regional wines. Don’t miss their aged Comté and Epoisses.
Mulot et Petitjean offers traditional Burgundian sweets, including pain d’épices (spice bread) and nonnettes (honey cakes).
Attractions
Visit the Hospices de Beaune, a 15th-century former hospital known for its colorful tiled roof and annual wine auction.
Explore the Château de Savigny-lès-Beaune, which houses unique collections of aircraft, motorcycles, and wine-related exhibits.
Events
Attend the Fête de la Pressée in September, celebrating the grape harvest with tastings, music, and traditional grape pressing demonstrations.
Don’t miss the Saint-Vincent Tournante, an annual wine festival held in January, rotating between different Burgundy villages each year.
Appellations
The main appellations in the region include Hautes-Côtes de Beaune and Hautes-Côtes de Nuits, known for their excellent value Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines.
Bourgogne Hautes Côtes de Beaune wines often display red fruit flavors and earthy notes, while the whites offer crisp acidity and citrus aromas.
Grape Varieties
Pinot Noir reigns supreme in Hautes-Côtes de Bourgogne. This red grape thrives in the region’s cooler climate, producing elegant wines with red fruit flavors and earthy notes.
Chardonnay is the dominant white grape variety. It creates crisp, mineral-driven wines that often showcase citrus and apple characteristics.
Main Wine Styles
- Red Wines: Light to medium-bodied, with bright acidity and red fruit flavors
- White Wines: Fresh and lively, often with a distinctive mineral character
- Crémant de Bourgogne: Sparkling wines made using the traditional method
Food Specialties
Boeuf Bourguignon pairs perfectly with local red wines. This hearty beef stew is a regional favorite.
Epoisses cheese, known for its pungent aroma, complements the area’s white wines beautifully.
Drives & Walks
Scenic Drives
The Route des Grands Crus offers breathtaking views of vineyards and charming villages. This 60-kilometer route takes you through the heart of Burgundy’s wine country.
Walking Trails
The Sentier des Vignes in Nuits-Saint-Georges provides an easy 5-kilometer walk through picturesque vineyards.
Itineraries
Weekend Getaway
- Day 1: Visit Nuits-Saint-Georges, tour a local winery, enjoy dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant
- Day 2: Explore Beaune, visit the Hospices de Beaune, attend a wine tasting session
Week-long Wine Adventure
- Days 1-2: Beaune and surroundings
- Days 3-4: Nuits-Saint-Georges and Côte de Nuits
- Days 5-6: Meursault and Côte de Beaune
- Day 7: Chablis day trip
Getting There & Around
The closest major airports are Lyon-Saint Exupéry and Paris Charles de Gaulle. From Paris, take a high-speed TGV train to Dijon (1.5 hours).
Rent a car for flexibility in exploring vineyards and villages. Many wineries are not accessible by public transport.
Local Transportation
- Buses: Connect major towns, but schedules can be limited
- Taxis: Available in larger towns, but book in advance
- Bike rentals: Popular for exploring vineyards in good weather
Best Time to Visit
September to November is ideal for wine enthusiasts. Experience the harvest season and enjoy fall colors in the vineyards.
May to June offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Perfect for outdoor activities and wine tasting.
Seasonal Considerations
- Winter (December-February): Cold, some wineries closed
- Spring (March-May): Mild weather, vineyards start to bloom
- Summer (June-August): Warm, busy tourist season
- Fall (September-November): Harvest time, festivals
Sustainability Efforts
Many Hautes-Côtes de Bourgogne wineries are embracing organic and biodynamic practices. Look for certifications like AB (Agriculture Biologique) or Demeter.
Support eco-friendly wineries by choosing those with sustainable practices. Ask about water conservation and biodiversity efforts during tours.
Sustainable Wine Tourism
- Use public transport or bike when possible
- Choose accommodations with green certifications
- Participate in vineyard conservation activities
Language Tips
Learning a few French wine terms enhances your experience. Key phrases include:
- Dégustation: Wine tasting
- Millésime: Vintage
- Terroir: The environmental factors influencing the wine
Most wineries offer tours in English, but booking in advance is recommended.
Further Resources
For in-depth information on Hautes-Côtes de Bourgogne wines, visit the official Bourgogne Wines website.
Download the Bourgogne Wine Tour app for self-guided tours and real-time winery information.
Recommended Books
- “The Wines of Burgundy” by Clive Coates
- “Inside Burgundy” by Jasper Morris
