White wines : Hautes-côtes-de-beaune

The Hautes Côtes overlooks the Côte de Beaune from the west, lying between Maranges and Ladoix-Serrigny. The interior is a succession of hills and valleys. The vines cover the sunny slopes at the foot of a limestone cliff. The villages clinging to the hillsides are composed of white stone buildings lining narrow streets.

The Hautes Côtes de Beaune reds (Pinot Noir) : Its crimson colour flecked with purple recalls a peony or certain deeply-coloured roses. The fruit-laden nose evokes at first Morello cherry and strawberry then develops towards blackcurrant, liquorice and often a touch of spice. The wines of the Hautes Côtes de Beaune are charming in their straightforward spontaneity. Sometimes a little stiff when young, they acquire harmony and balance after some years'aging.

A small amount of Bourgogne rosé Hautes Côtes de Beaune (also known as Bourgogne Clairet) is produced from Pinot Noir grapes.

Whites (Chardonnay, in rare cases Pinot Blanc or Pinot Gris). These wines are a pale straw colour with pale gold highlights. They boast aromas of white flowers mixed with honey, and recall gingerbread. In the mouth they are as elegant as they are enjoyable and retain the freshness of the grape without excessive sweetness.

(More information: www.burgundy-wines.fr)