Written on 18/06/2023
Nestled in the Saône valley, Bouzeron is a small village in the Côte Chalonnaise, about 20 kilometers south of Beaune. The village is famous for its white wine, produced from the Aligoté grape variety, which grows on the limestone hills of the region.
Burgundy is a French region renowned for its top-quality wines, and the village of Bouzeron is an excellent example of this reputation. Nestled in the Saône valley, Bouzeron is a small village in the Côte Chalonnaise, some 20 kilometers south of Beaune. The village is famous for its white wine, produced from the Aligoté grape variety, which grows on the limestone hills of the region.
Bouzeron wines were awarded Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) status in 1998, in recognition of the quality of their unique terroir. Bouzeron wine production is limited to around 100 hectares of vines, which are cultivated by a handful of passionate local producers. These winemakers work hard to produce a quality wine, using traditional viticulture techniques and respecting the terroir.
Characteristics of the Bouzeron terroir
The Bouzeron terroir is unique in Burgundy due to its particular geographical location. The vineyards are located on steep, south-east-facing slopes, benefiting from optimal sunshine throughout the day. The region's soils are composed of limestone and marl, giving Bouzeron wines a fresh, mineral character.
The Aligoté grape: the signature of Bouzeron wines
The Aligoté grape is Burgundy's traditional white grape variety. It is a difficult grape to grow, requiring special attention throughout the growing season. The Aligoté grape is often considered Chardonnay's little brother, but it has a very distinctive character that makes it a unique wine.
Bouzeron wine is produced from the Aligoté grape, but with a different winemaking method to that used for the region's other wines. Unlike other Burgundy white wines, which are often fermented in oak barrels, Bouzeron wine is fermented in stainless steel tanks. This preserves the wine's freshness and minerality, and reveals the lime, green apple and gunflint notes typical of the Aligoté grape variety.
How to enjoy Bouzeron wine
Bouzeron wine is a dry, fresh white wine that goes well with a variety of dishes. It can be served as an aperitif or with seafood, grilled fish, white meats and goat's cheese. Bouzeron wine should be served chilled, between 8°C and 10°C, to bring out its full aromas.
Bouzeron wines were awarded Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) status in 1998, in recognition of the quality of their unique terroir. Bouzeron wine production is limited to around 100 hectares of vines, which are cultivated by a handful of passionate local producers. These winemakers work hard to produce a quality wine, using traditional viticulture techniques and respecting the terroir.
Characteristics of the Bouzeron terroir
The Bouzeron terroir is unique in Burgundy due to its particular geographical location. The vineyards are located on steep, south-east-facing slopes, benefiting from optimal sunshine throughout the day. The region's soils are composed of limestone and marl, giving Bouzeron wines a fresh, mineral character.
The Aligoté grape: the signature of Bouzeron wines
The Aligoté grape is Burgundy's traditional white grape variety. It is a difficult grape to grow, requiring special attention throughout the growing season. The Aligoté grape is often considered Chardonnay's little brother, but it has a very distinctive character that makes it a unique wine.
Bouzeron wine is produced from the Aligoté grape, but with a different winemaking method to that used for the region's other wines. Unlike other Burgundy white wines, which are often fermented in oak barrels, Bouzeron wine is fermented in stainless steel tanks. This preserves the wine's freshness and minerality, and reveals the lime, green apple and gunflint notes typical of the Aligoté grape variety.
How to enjoy Bouzeron wine
Bouzeron wine is a dry, fresh white wine that goes well with a variety of dishes. It can be served as an aperitif or with seafood, grilled fish, white meats and goat's cheese. Bouzeron wine should be served chilled, between 8°C and 10°C, to bring out its full aromas.
