Bullet Points on the Côte de Beaune

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Corton

Corton is one of only two Grand Crus that covers both white and red wine. The fame of the vineyard dates back to Charlemagne, who loved the wines from this imposing hill. He was particularly taken by the reds. However, once his beard became stained with its purple juice, he ordered the black grapes to be ripped out and whites planted. Wow, even Charlemagne had a sense for terroir!

The wines of Corton are the leanest of Burgundy’s top growths. They are reticent to unfold their fragrance in their youth and they show firm acidity, emphasized by the presence of tannins in the reds. These wines need more time than other Grand Crus to open up. The western, Pernand-Vergelesses side is best suited to whites while eastern Aloxe-Corton is equally well-suited to both.

Photo courtesy of PhillipC via Flickr/cc

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Comments

waldo-
lydecker

264268 6

Great article, Christy. As great as the wines are, the country-side, Romanesque churchs (Autun, Djon, Tournus, Vezelay), chateaux (Cormatin) and dining (everywhere from Beaune to Macon!) also make Burgundy exceptional.

Jul 19, 2012 at 4:23 PM
Christy-
Canterbury-
MW

Hand of Snooth

1060100 41,254

Thanks. Yes, the region is marvelous! Cluny is also a must-see!

Jul 20, 2012 at 9:50 AM
Calamus

1121277 248

I just read a few of your articles. You sold me on trying more of this region's wine. :) I think I'll start with Puligny-Montrachet if I can get it.

Jul 26, 2012 at 4:46 PM