Nuits-Saint-Georges
Nowhere else in Burgundy you can find Pinot Noir grapes that are as powerful, profound and long-lasting as the wines from the Nuits-Saint-Georges appellation. It is no exaggeration to say that Nuits-Saint-Georges is something like the wine-growing heart of the Côte de Nuits in Burgundy, France.
The best wines from Nuits-Saint-Georges
Nowhere else in Burgundy you can find Pinot Noir grapes that are as powerful, profound and long-lasting as the wines from the Nuits-Saint-Georges appellation. It is no exaggeration to say that Nuits-Saint-Georges is something like the wine-growing heart of the Côte de Nuits in Burgundy, France. After all, this community of 7,500 souls is located pretty much in the middle between Dijon in the south and Beaune in the north. Not to mention that the appellation borders its legendary sister Vosne-Romanée to the north.
Wines from famous domains like Domaine Leroy, Arnoux-Lachaux, Jean Grivot, just to mention a few, gave the region worldwide fame.
Where exactly is the Nuits-Saint-Georges appellation?
It is no exaggeration to say that Nuits-Saint-Georges is something like the wine-growing heart of the Côte de Nuits in Burgundy, France. After all, this community of 7,500 souls is located pretty much in the middle between Dijon in the south and Beaune in the north. Not to mention that the appellation borders its legendary sister Vosne-Romanée to the north. Winegrowing has existed here since Gallo-Roman times, but it was not until the early Middle Ages that quality was promoted. However, this was not done by monks, as was customary in Burgundy, but by wealthy burghers and the nobility. This makes Nuits-Saint-Georges truly unique in the history of Burgundy winegrowing. The fact that the nobility strongly promoted winegrowing here explains why even the Sun King, Louis XIV, was recommended the wines of Nuits-Saint-Georges by his doctors as a tonic.
All this makes the appellation quite unique. But we have another surprise for you. Although the wines from Nuits-Saint-Georges are highly regarded all over the world, the appellation, with its 300 hectares of vineyards, boasts 39 Premiers Crus – but not a single Grand Cru. Many winegrowers do, of course, have plots in the legendary Grand Cru Clos de Vougeot. But this does not belong to Nuits-Saint-Georges, but forms its own appellation. For years, many winegrowers and wine experts have been calling for the upgrading of Premiers Crus such as Les Saint-Georges, Les Cailles and Les Pruliers to Grand Cru status. But this has not happened yet. However, this fact shows how renowned the Premiers Crus of Nuits-Saint-Georges are in the wine world.
Which grapes are grown in Nuits-Saint-Georges?
The Côte de Nuits is the Pinot Noir stronghold in Burgundy. And even though Nuits-Saint-Georges has a few peculiarities, the appellation is no exception. 97 per cent of the vineyard area is planted with Pinot Noir. These wines are also responsible for the appellation's reputation. However, we should not forget that a good ten hectares – three per cent – are planted with white grapes. Chardonnay is the main variety, although there are also smaller plantings of Pinot Blanc and even a little Pinot Gris. The mostly single-varietal wines produced from these grapes are truly exotic and are hardly ever sold internationally.
Climate and soils in Nuits-Saint-Georges
There is little need to dwell on the climate here, as it is typical of Burgundy: continental with cold winters, warm summers and a marked difference between day and night temperatures. Rainfall is moderate. However, late frosts and hail regularly threaten to destroy the entire vineyard.
The real secret of Nuits-Saint-Georges' quality lies in its soils, which form a fascinating mosaic. In the north, gravelly alluvial soils and muddy deposits from the Meuzin River dominate, while in the south, deep limestone soils and marly sites prevail. On the upper slopes, the rock comes close to the surface, resulting in particularly good drainage and low yields. The best sites are mostly east to south-east facing, ensuring optimal sun exposure.
Wine producers
What does a wine from Nuits-Saint-Georges taste like?
A classic Nuits-Saint-Georges is a prime example of Burgundian finesse and power. When young, it displays intense aromas of red and dark berries, often underpinned by floral and spicy notes. On the palate, it is juicy, dense and structured, with present but elegant tannins and a fresh, lively acidity.
With age, more complex aromas of undergrowth, truffle, leather and sometimes animal notes come to the fore. The best wines develop an almost silky texture without losing their power and depth. The Premiers Crus from the north are often a little finer and more elegant, while the southern sites show more power and structure.
The white wines from Nuits-Saint-Georges are of rare opulence and minerality. They smell of brioche, honey and white flowers and show a firm, almost creamy structure on the palate with a fine, salty minerality on the finish.
What food goes well with wines from Nuits-Saint-Georges?
Classic dishes from French cuisine are a perfect match for the classic, refined red wines produced in Nuits-Saint-Georges. From coq au vin to grilled duck breast to a hearty bœuf bourguignon, the possibilities for perfect combinations are endless. We also recommend saddle of venison or venison fillet as a dish to accompany a mature Nuits-Saint-Georges, as the earthy and spicy notes go particularly well with it.
Various cheeses from the region are another delicious accompaniment to the red wines from Nuits-Saint-Georges. In this case, these include Époisses, Langres and Soumaintrain, which harmonise perfectly with the power and complexity of the wines. Let yourself be inspired by the wines from Nuits-Saint-Georges and discover the fine selection at Best of Wines.
