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Viré-Clessé is relatively new in the Mâconnais region of Burgundy and was the latest appellation created in that region. Viré-Clessé wines are exclusively made from Chardonnay grapes. Viré-Clessécan be delicate and supple, with a tender and spontaneous side. The splendor of natural landscapes and the excellent wine are a perfect combination that you can't miss! WineTourism.com offers exclusive French Wine Tours and customized options to suit any budget. We are here to help you plan your perfect trip!

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Viré-Clessé Wine Region

Where is the Viré-Clessé Wine Region

The Viré-Clessé wine region is part of the Mâconnais subregion, located north of the town of Mâcon and in the direction of France's Côte Chalonnaise subregion.

History of Viré-Clessé

The Viré-Clessé appellation was created in February 1999 and retrospectively applied to the 1998 vintage. Beaujolais-Villages was created as an alternative appellation to the more prestigious Pouilly wines (Pouilly-Fuissé, Pouilly-Loché and Pouilly-Vinzelles). It's one of the few appellations capable of producing white wines of quality. The appellation covers not just the communes of Viré and Clessé, but also their immediate neighbors, Laize and Montbellet. The catchment area of the title sits midway between the towns of Tournus in the north and Mâcon in the south. Its eastern side is bound by the Saône river. The region has been famous since the beginning for producing high-quality wine, and it's still justified today.

Terrior of Viré-Clessé

In Viré-Clessé wine region the climate is moderate continental. It’s ground are on an eastern exposure and are at an altitude between 200-440 m above sea level.On the ridgeline, limestone from the Jurassic period separates Bajocian strata from limestone. The upper layer of soil in the second coast is clay containing 'chaille’ or sandstone pebbles. This means they are both good at draining rainwater. The winery produces more than 1,900,000 liters of wine per year and the soil in these areas is ideal for growing Chardonnay grapes.

Viré-Clessé Characteristics 

Viré-Clessé wine color is light but very shiny, not too different from yellow, with shades of green. The nose has an immediate and pleasant impression thanks to a bouquet of may-flowers or acacia, springtime honeysuckle, and broom. It also has notes of lemon balm, white peach, verbena and mint or bracken. As the wine ages, quince jam and pine make their appearance. Lively and fresh, with a slight edge but still friendly to drink- this wine is reliable introduction to white wines. It is a delicate, supple material - which makes it all the more interesting.

Food to pair with Viré-Clessé

1. Poires au vin

Poires au vin is a traditional French dessert from the Beaujolais region. It consists of pears, fruity red wine (usually Beaujolais), and flavorings like honey or sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, orange zest and pepper. Poaching the pears briefly in wine and other ingredients before boiling them may seem excessive but it makes the finished product even more delicious. The pears should still be firm when you remove them from the pot, are then finished with a sauce made from the remaining ingredients. Pairs amazing with Viré-Clessé Wine.

2. Nonnette

The delicate nonnettes, or jam filled individual cakes, are one of the classic French desserts. There are several different variations and all of them are gingerbread cake that's been filled with a classic orange jam. A nonnette is a type of pastry that's doughy, spongy, and usually made with rye bread and honey. It's typically generously spiced with gingerbread spices which include cinnamon, nutmeg, anise, cardamom and ginger. At the heart of each cake lies a marzipan surprise Once in a while, these small goodies are covered with a mixture of egg whites, sugar, and lemon juice. They are usually connected to the winter season, and are commonly served during the St. Nicholas celebrations in December; although they can be enjoyed year-round. Translated from French, the name "Nunettes" has its origins in the old story that's said to be the reason behind their origins. Historically, nuns would prepare these cakes in the monasteries during the Middle Ages and they were offered as a sweet refreshment to travelers passing by. The origin of these pastries remains unknown but they are found in Dijon and other parts of France. Nonnettes can be bought at local bakeries, or packaged at stores. It goes well with Viré-Clessé Wine.

3. Mâconnais

Mâconnais is a tiny conical cheese made from unpasteurised, full fat goat's milk and is typically from the region of Burgundy, in France. It's smaller than a shot glass so it can be easily enjoyed.

It is dried out in cheese cages and kept from pests. It takes two weeks to age and has a tough, crumbly texture with qualities similar to a smooth, creamy cheese. Although the size of this Barolo is small, the taste is powerful and bold, but not overpowering. Traditionally, enjoy Mâconnais with crackers, sliced fruit and Viré-Clessé Wine.

Places to visit near Viré-Clessé

1. Musée des Ursulines

The Musée des Ursulines is a nice museum that has something for everyone. It houses over 25,000 items from various collections, and provides visitors with the opportunity to experience art from different periods in history.

2. Cathédrale Saint-Cyr-et-Sainte-Julitte

The Cathédrale Saint-Cyr-et-Sainte-Julitte is an 11th century church showing various architectural styles: a Romanesque west choir, Gothic nave and Renaissance spiral staircase.

3. Benedictine abbey

Paray-le-Monial is the town that grew up around the Benedictine abbey founded in 973 CE. The 12th century Romanesque church became a place of pilgrimage and a national monument in 1675 when Marguerite-Marie Alacoque - who had lived at the Monastery since 1870 - reported seeing apparitions of Christ.

Frequently asked questions about Viré-Clessé Wine Region

What kind of wine is Viré-Clessé?

Viré-Clessé is an AOC for white wine in the Mâconnais subregion in Burgundy in central France.

What grapes are used to produce Viré-Clessé wines?

Viré-Clessé wines are produced exclusively from the Chardonnay grape variety.

The best time to visit Viré-Clessé wine region?

Vineyards in Viré-Clessé are beautiful in September-November. This is the perfect time to explore and take in the colors.

Map of Wineries in Viré-Clessé

Discover the locations of wineries in Viré-Clessé