Bouzeron Wine Region

Bouzeron is the most distinguished wine region of the Côte Chalonnaise in Burgundy, dedicated solely to the Aligoté grape. Although other neighboring regions focus more on Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and other Burgundian varietals, the region specializes in making white wines made entirely from the Aligote grape. The Bouzeron wine area, which includes the communes of Bouzeron and Chassey-le-Camp, was designated as an AOC in 1998. Previously, wines were labeled as Bourgogne Aligote. Bouzeron wines stand out for their finished products, which accentuate floral characteristics, minerals, and aromatic white stone fruits. Because of its larger and more famous neighbors, such as Cotes de Beaune and Cotes de Nuits, the wines from the region have long been overlooked by the wine community.

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Bouzeron!

Where is the Bouzeron wine region?

The Bouzeron wine area is concentrated in the town of Bourzeron and the commune of Chassey le Camp in Northern Saône-et-Côte Loire's Chalonnaise. The region is located on the Côte Chalonnaise, just south of Burgundy's pride, the Cote de Nuits and Cote de Beaune. The area is delimited to the northwest by Santenay, to the southeast by Rully, and to the north by Chassagne-Montrachet. The Bouzeron wine area is located 68 kilometers southwest of Dijon, 20 kilometers southwest of Beaune, 45 kilometers northwest of Tournus, and 78 kilometers north of Macon.

History of the Bouzeron wine region

Bourzeron and Chassey le Camp have a history that dates back to the 9th century and was mentioned by the Abbey of Saint Marcel Les Chalon in 835AD. The term "Bouzeron" is said to be derived from the German word "Boserontis." Chassey le Camp was formerly known as just Chassey, but the name was changed in 1946 to reflect a notable ancient camp on its grounds. Despite their small size, these villages include archeological finds dating back to the stone period, probably between 4500 and 3500 BC. The Romans introduced to wine and grapes into the region, rapidly becoming one of the region's principal commodities. Bouzeron wines were historically highly sought after by locals and those from nearby regions. Everyone at the Abbey of Saint Marcel used these wines as sacramental wine.

The terroir and geography of the Bouzeron wine region

The area is geologically situated on top of Jurassic limestone layers. The climate of the Bouzeron wine area is continental, with hot, dry summers and milder winters. Rainfall in the region surpasses the Côte Chalonnaise average. Vines are grown at elevations ranging from 270 to 350 meters above sea level. The slopes are fairly steep and face east or southeast, providing maximum sun exposure to the grapes. Aligote grapes grown in the Bouzeron wine area are distinct from other Aligote grapes grown in Burgundy. Bouzeron Aligote grapes are golden with a thin peel and give balanced acidity and alcohol conversion.

Popular grape varieties from the Bouzeron wine region

The wine area of Bouzeron is an outstanding example of Burgundy, focusing on 100% Aligote grapes rather than conventional Burgundian grape varieties. The region is home to a distinct kind of Aligote grape, which differs greatly from the typical variety grown elsewhere in Burgundy. Bouzeron wines are usually dry and light, with noticeable floral flavors. The area emphasizes the lighter and more refreshing features of its wines. To be designated with the appellation, these wines must have at least 9.5% alcohol.

Food to pair with Bouzeron wine 

Salt and Pepper Calamari

Salt and Pepper Calamari – A popular dish in China, this one is inspired by Australia instead. The calamari or squid has a crisp salt-and-pepper breading deep fried until it’s golden brown. The dish is often prepared and served as a bar or pub snack. It's often garnished with garlic, fried chili, and spring onions. It pairs well with Bouzeron wines.

Sake nigiri Sushi

This traditional Japanese dish features sashimi-grade salmon atop fluffy sushi rice. The rice is shaped by hand into bite-size pieces and topped with a slice of salmon. The sushi, like most other sushi, has a delicate feel. The flavor of raw salmon can be a little fishier than that of tuna fish. Sake nigiri Sushi is typically eaten with one hand in a single mouthful. Sushi is served with soy sauce, wasabi, or pickles. This versatile sushi can be matched with wines from the Bouzeron wine region.

Bresse Bleu

Bresse Bleu is a soft and blue cheese manufactured in the Burgundy region of Bresse from pasteurized cow's milk. This wonderful cheese has a thick and buttery creamy texture with mushroomy undertones. This cheese is available in 125 to 500-gram cylindrical rounds. Before being placed in the mold, Bresse Bleu is salted and infected with Penicillium roquieforti. An agricultural cooperative created cheese in 1951 as a cheaper alternative to pricey blue cheese. Pair this creamy cheese with Bouzeron wines. 

Places to visit in the Bouzeron wine region

Domaine de Villaine

Domaine de Villaine is a significant wine estate in the Bouzeron wine region, and it is recognized for resurrecting the Aligote grape in the region. The Domaine dates back to the Middle Ages when Benedictine monks planted grapes in this unique environment. Aubert de Villaine, the estate's owner, is recognized as the essential figure in obtaining a distinct appellation. Since 1986, the winery has used organic farming practices and has been certified by Qualice-France. The winery's wines are excellent and set the standard for the region. Discover this old winery and sample its delicious wines.

Musee de Hôtel-Dieu de Beaune

In 1443, Nicolas Rolin, chancellor of Burgundy, constructed the Hospices de Beaune or Hôtel-Dieu de Beaune to offer health services to the impoverished. Burgundian architecture from the 15th century graces the structure. The majority of the structure has been carefully kept, with decorative roofing and timber galleries.

After 1971, the structure was transformed into a museum, and the medical service is now given in a contemporary facility nearby, keeping the same aim alive. The group also holds a three-day charity wine festival dedicated entirely to the food and wines of Burgundy. Since 1859, the event has been celebrated on the third Sunday of November.

Frequently asked questions about Bouzeron