Collection: Hautes Côtes de Beaune

Hautes Côtes de Beaune is an appellation in Bourgogne, located in the hills just behind the famous Côte de Beaune. It is a larger and more varied appellation than the neighbouring appellation Hautes-Côtes de Nuits, and that very diversity makes it an exciting place to look for well-made Bourgogne with clear origin.

The main focus here is the red wines, made from Pinot Noir together with the related varieties Pinot Gris and Pinot Liébault. They are typically ruby red in colour, medium-bodied and carry Pinot's characteristic aroma, with a creamy, fruit-driven finish. These are wines that suit both everyday meat and poultry dishes and a quiet evening with cheese.

Although the reds set the agenda, the appellation also covers white wine, made from Chardonnay and Pinot Blanc. You will, however, come across it more rarely in practice. In addition, there is rosé, which can be sold under the designation Bourgogne Clairet Hautes-Côtes de Beaune AOC. This provides a broader range of styles than many expect from an area that often lives a little in the shadow of its more prestigious neighbours down on the slope itself.

For us, Hautes Côtes de Beaune is a good example of what the lesser-known corners of Bourgogne can do: honest wines with provenance, where the grape and the place are allowed to speak. If you want to get to know Burgundian Pinot Noir without going straight to the most renowned appellations, this is an obvious place to begin. If you feel like exploring further, you will find more options under Frankrig.