Presentation of the appellation

Savigny-lès-Beaune is a commune in Burgundy, in the Côte de Beaune wine-growing sub-region. In accordance with the nomenclature of Burgundy appellations, this village and its surrounding area, with its characteristic terroir, corresponds to a “climat” that makes it an AOC classified among the communal appellations of the Côte de Beaune vineyards.

Within the Savigny-lès-Beaune appellation, there are 22 climats classified as “1er Cru”, whose wines are labelled “Savigny-lès-Beaune 1er Cru [nom du climat]”. In Burgundy, “1er Cru” ranks second only to “Grand Cru” in the AOC classification.

Spread over 350 hectares and 22 climats, the Savigny-lès-Beaune 1er Cru appellation produces around 15,000 hl/year, including less than 2,000 hl/year of white wines. We have precisely 89% red wines and 11% white wines.

Terroir and climate

The soils of this terroir are covered with limestone scree from the upper slopes of the Côte, red silts dating from the Ice Age and rocks derived from the alteration of geological layers underground. Depending on altitude, soils range from very chalky and thin (upstream) to clayey and chalky (downstream).

Oceanic and cool, the climate can sometimes be disturbed by continental or southern influences.

In terms of grape varieties, we mainly use Pinot Noir (Pinot Noirrien) to make red wines and Chardonnay (Aubois or Aubaine) for white wines.

Tasting and gastronomy

AOC Savigny-lès-Beaune 1er Cru red wines can be kept for 5 to 8 years. Dry white wines have a lower ageing potential, between 4 and 6 years. The diversity of soils and terroirs in the 22 climats makes Savigny-lès-Beaune wines very different products.

Moreover, Pinot Noir’s aromas may differ depending on whether it is destemmed or not. If only the fruit is kept, the wine will draw heavily on light, fruity aromas. Conversely, if you keep the bunch with the grapes, the juice will be more bitter and tannic.

Nevertheless, there are some common characteristics among the wines of this AOC. Generally speaking, red wines have a rather dark color and aromas of red and black fruit. The tannic structure is well balanced. As for the white wines, the aromas tend towards exotic fruits and the texture is soft and supple.

Red wines are perfect with red meats or game. The whites go well with fish and cheese, mainly from the region.