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Monthélie

Burgundy

A tiny, charming village nestled between Volnay and Auxey-Duresses that somehow stays off most people's radar. The reds here are fragrant and refined, offering a taste of the Côte de Beaune at some of its most approachable prices.

The wines of Monthélie are made primarily from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir. Steely, mineral, unoaked.

Vineyard Map

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Nearby Appellations

To the east Volnay

To the west Auxey-Duresses

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Terroir & Classification

Soils

LimestoneMarl

The vineyards of Monthélie sit on Jurassic limestone bedrock from the Bathonian and Bajocian periods, interlayered with Oxfordian marl containing abundant marine fossils. This alternating limestone-marl composition creates excellent drainage on the slopes while allowing deeper root penetration into the softer marl layers, with the limestone providing mineral structure and the marl retaining sufficient moisture during dry periods.

Classification

15

Premier Cru vineyards

A significant number that speaks to the quality and variety of vineyard sites here.

Elevation

250-350m, predominantly south and southeast-facing slopes

Microclimate

Protected by higher slopes to the west, Monthélie enjoys slightly warmer conditions than neighboring Auxey-Duresses while remaining cooler than Volnay due to its higher elevation and exposure to cooling winds from the Saône valley. The amphitheater-like valley configuration creates beneficial air circulation that reduces frost risk and promotes even ripening.

Typical Aromas

red cherryvioletforest floorwet limestonedried herbswhite pepper

Grapes of Burgundy

Chardonnay

white
Body
Sweetness
Acidity
green applelemonpearmelon

Steely, mineral, unoaked

Pinot Noir

red
Body
Tannins
Sweetness
Acidity
strawberryraspberryred cherryviolet

Thin-skinned grape with naturally low tannin. Typically made as a single varietal; also used extensively for Champagne and other sparkling wines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Monthélie known for?▼
Monthélie is known for being one of Burgundy's best-kept secrets, producing exceptional value wines in a charming village between Volnay and Auxey-Duresses. Despite its quality, it remains refreshingly under the radar compared to its famous neighbors.
What does Monthélie wine taste like?▼
Monthélie wines are fragrant and refined, showcasing the elegant style of Côte de Beaune reds. They offer beautiful aromatics with a graceful, approachable character that represents excellent quality-to-price ratio in Burgundy.
What grapes are grown in Monthélie?▼
Monthélie primarily grows Pinot Noir for its renowned red wines. Some Chardonnay is also cultivated for white wine production, though the appellation is predominantly known for its reds.
How many premier crus does Monthélie have?▼
Monthélie has 15 Premier Cru vineyards. This is quite impressive for such a small appellation, reflecting the high quality terroir found throughout this compact village.
What soil types are found in Monthélie?▼
Monthélie's vineyards are planted on limestone and marl soils. These classic Burgundian soil types provide excellent drainage and mineral complexity that contribute to the wines' refined character.

Map data: INAO, Cadastre, manual adjustments