Corton

Corton is a Grand Cru appellation in the Côte de Beaune region of the Côtes-d'Or. The Corton appellation may be followed by the name of the climat where the wine originates, for red wines only. Corton Grand Cru wines are located in the communes of Aloxe-Corton, Ladoix-Serigny, and Pernand-Vergelesses. The vineyard area, covering nearly 94 hectares, which is relatively large for a Grand Cru, explains the contrasting nuances of this appellation. This diversity is remarkably expressed thanks to quality houses such as Domaine Chanson Père et Fils, Joseph Drouhin, Domaine Leroy, Domaine Faiveley, and Bouchard Père et Fils.

Facing southeast/southwest, which is unusual in the Côte, the Corton hillside offers a perfect geological cross-section: the Oxfordian Jurassic layers here between Ladoix and Meursault are younger than in the rest of the Côte. Halfway up the hillside, the gently sloping soil is reddish and stony, brown limestone, rich in marl with a high potassium content. It allows Pinot Noir to flourish. Chardonnay, mainly used for Corton-Charlemagne, occupies the upper part of the slope.

Corton wines have a long history. Produced since at least the end of the 8th century by the region's abbeys, they are reputed to have been Charlemagne's favorite wines. The Grand Cru appellation, obtained in 1937, ranks them among the best wines in France.

Corton is one of the largest vineyards in Burgundy. It covers the slopes of Montagne de Corton in the Beaune region. Such a vast area (145 hectares) means there is a wide variety of climates, soils and therefore wines. However, like most of the Burgundy region, the general climate is defined as oceanic with semi-continental tendencies.

The high limestone content, with Montagne de Corton (actually a hill) being a limestone outcrop, provides the vines with excellent drainage. The middle of the hill is marked by rich marl deposits, making it ideal for growing Pinot Noir, while Chardonnay is grown higher up. Finally, the eastern slope is slightly warmer than the western slope.

Corton wines are made mainly from Pinot Noir, but also from Chardonnay. However, most of Corton's production consists of red wines. The Corton appellation is also the only Grand Cru appellation in the Côte de Beaune for red wine.

Characteristics of Corton wines

Wine enthusiasts will find three Grand Crus on Corton Hill:

• Corton

• Corton-Charlemagne

• Charlemagne

Corton-Charlemagne and Charlemagne (the latter being very rarely used) are white wines made from Chardonnay grapes. They are characterized by fruit aromas (apple, citrus) and minerality (flint). They are golden in color when young, but become more yellow as they age. The richness of their aromas and their powerful taste pair well with foods whose flavors can compete with them: foie gras, shellfish, and blue cheeses. Their ideal serving temperature is between 54°F and 57°F.

Corton wines are mainly red, but include a few whites that have characteristics relatively similar to Corton-Charlemagne.

Cortons red wines are emblematic of Burgundy. They are aged for between 4 and 12 years, after which they reach their peak. Corton reds are slightly tannic, fruity (redcurrant, blueberry, and kirsch) and floral (violet). Their intensity and power on the palate make them a perfect accompaniment to roast beef, game, and strong cheeses. They should be served between 55 and 60°F.

With a long history spanning 12 centuries, a prestigious Burgundy appellation, a white wine worthy of the finest Burgundies, and an exceptional red wine, the Montagne de Corton is well worth a visit, whether you're wearing hiking boots or just tasting its wines.