Bouzeron

The Burgundy wine region is home to small vineyards whose appellations produce exceptional wines. Located in the Côte Chalonnaise, Bouzeron is a prime example. Bouzeron is a Burgundy white wine with character. Discover this distinctive wine crafted by 25 passionate winemakers.

Bouzeron became an AOC white wine in 1997 under the leadership of Aubert de Vilaine, co-manager of the famous Domaine de la Romanée-Conti. This appellation is produced in the northern part of Saône-et-Loire across two administrative communes, Chassey-le-Champ and Bouzeron, separated by the Dheune Valley. Bouzeron is produced exclusively from the Aligoté grape variety on 52 hectares of clay-limestone hillsides. These vineyards are tended by 25 dedicated winegrowers who take pride in reviving a long-forgotten grape variety by crafting a wine with a delicate character. 

The Aligoté grape variety originates from Burgundy and is characterized by a blend of the now-extinct Gouais Blanc and Pinot Noir. It is a very old variety dating back to the 17th century. Aligoté is used exclusively in the Bourgogne Aligoté appellation. In Burgundy, it is the second most widely planted grape variety after Chardonnay. Aligoté currently accounts for 6% of Burgundy’s white grape plantings. It is very vigorous and fairly resistant to diseases such as powdery mildew. This Burgundian grape variety is increasingly appreciated by consumers, having long been overlooked. Thanks to their remarkable efforts, today’s winemakers at this estate have successfully restored its reputation and made this appellation a benchmark AOC and a white wine beloved by both enthusiasts and professionals. 

Bouzeron is grown on the upper slopes of well-drained limestone hillsides composed of white marl. The vines thrive in this mixture of clay and limestone soils, as it ensures adequate moisture and helps retain the sun’s heat. This terroir is located at an elevation of between 270 and 350 meters. The vineyard slopes face east and southeast. The continental climate is ideal for grapevines, with hot summers and cold winters free of late frosts, along with variable rainfall throughout the year. The Bouzeron vineyard is pruned using the gobelet method. This pruning technique dates back to Roman times. It involves training two to five branches to grow from the central trunk, which helps control yields and allows for better airflow around the grape clusters. The ripening grapes are large, and the white berries tend to have an orange tint. They can be recognized by the brown spots on part of the berry.

Pleasant on the palate, AOC Aligoté pairs beautifully with every course of a meal—from aperitifs and appetizers to main courses and cheeses. This fruity, delicate, and mineral-driven white wine from Burgundy sometimes produces vintages that are very round and complex. Bouzeron is highly appreciated when served fairly young and well-chilled with unique dishes such as tapas, seafood, fish, white meats, a charcuterie platter, an omelet, goat cheese, or Comté. Its pale golden color with silvery highlights reveals aromas of fruits such as apple and almond, citrus, and mineral notes on the nose. On the palate, the same aromatic intensity is present, accompanied by a lively freshness that pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes, whether at a restaurant or at home. A delight for both the nose and the taste buds. As always, it’s up to each person to form their own opinion on the matter. We’re betting that the Bouzeron’s delicate fruity notes won’t leave you indifferent.