Recognized since 1936, the Fixin appellation (pronounced “fissin”) has always grown up in the shadow of its neighboring AOC “Gevrey Chambertin” on the Côte de Nuit. Located in the northern part of the Côte de Nuit region, Fixin boasts just 100 hectares of production, while Gevrey Chambertin boasts 409 hectares. AOC Fixin has no Grands Crus either, while Gevrey Chambertin has nine. Yet the two appellations have virtually identical terroirs, and were developed by the same abbeys. Fixin wines have earned their own reputation over the centuries, and the 1er Crus are a real treasure in the eyes of many wine-lovers. The appellation has seven such vineyards (Arvelet, Clos de la Perrière, Clos du Chapitre, Clos Napoléon, Hervelets, Le Clos and Le Meix Bas) covering almost 18 hectares.

A land of character

Fixin’s 1er Crus are planted on limestone soils in the hills above the village. The topographical gradient of this wine-growing area is remarkable. Facing east and south-east, the vines sometimes reach altitudes of between 350 and 380 metres. This geography gives Fixin 1er Cru wines all their elegance and power. In contrast, the rest of the appellation is based on deeper, very marly soils, producing full-bodied, tannic wines.

Powerful, elegant wines

Fixin’s 1er Crus are largely red wines (17.34 ha) made entirely from Pinot Noir, with a deep, “medium-dark” color, as the Burgundians say. They have the reputation of being full-bodied, with a fruity nose of blackcurrant and redcurrant, supported by a fullness of tannin. These wines have excellent ageing potential, ranging from 10 to 20 years depending on the year.

There are, however, a few parcels of 1er Cru white, made from Chardonay and spread over less than a hectare of the appellation. Their low production volume makes them more confidential and less accessible to the general public. They have a pale gold color with beautiful green reflections, a limpid, brilliant color and a thick disk. On the nose, you’ll find the characteristics of “chardonnay”, with lovely floral and citrus notes. On the palate, the attack is frank, the mid-palate is round, but the finish is remarkably fine.

1er Cru reds go perfectly with fine cuts of meat such as braised pork or entrecôte with parsley. They are also a perfect match for more exotic dishes such as paella, tapas or egg rolls. For whites, we recommend seafood, white meats and blue-veined cheeses such as Bresse blue cheese.