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Santenay

Burgundy

A relaxed village at the southern end of the Côte de Beaune, Santenay produces earthy, approachable reds and a handful of interesting whites. It is a wonderful appellation for exploring honest Burgundy without the prestige pricing.

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

Vineyard Map

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Nearby Appellations

To the north Chassagne-Montrachet

To the west Maranges

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Terroir & Classification

Soils

LimestoneMarl

Santenay sits on Jurassic limestone bedrock from the Bathonian and Callovian stages, rich in marine fossils including belemnites and brachiopods. The soils are predominantly thin limestone scree mixed with calcareous marl, providing excellent drainage while allowing vine roots to penetrate deep into fissured bedrock for water access during dry periods.

Classification

12

Premier Cru vineyards

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

Elevation

200-320m, predominantly east and southeast-facing slopes

Microclimate

Being the southernmost appellation of Côte de Beaune, Santenay enjoys slightly warmer temperatures and earlier ripening than northern neighbors like Volnay. The village's position in a sheltered valley provides protection from harsh winds while maintaining good air circulation through the vineyard slopes.

Typical Aromas

wet earthforest floordark cherryleathermushroommineral stones

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 Santenay known for?▼
Santenay is known for producing honest, approachable Burgundy wines without the prestige pricing of other appellations. Located at the southern end of the Côte de Beaune, it's a relaxed village that offers excellent value for exploring authentic Burgundian character.
What does Santenay wine taste like?▼
Santenay reds are characterized by their earthy, approachable style with good structure from the limestone soils. The whites, though less common, show interesting mineral complexity and freshness typical of southern Côte de Beaune.
What grapes are grown in Santenay?▼
Santenay primarily grows Pinot Noir for its red wines, which make up the majority of production. Chardonnay is also cultivated for the smaller production of white wines.
How many premier crus does Santenay have?▼
Santenay has 12 premier cru vineyards. These premier cru sites represent the appellation's finest terroirs and produce wines with greater complexity and aging potential.
What soil types are found in Santenay?▼
Santenay's vineyards are planted on limestone and marl soils. These calcareous soils provide excellent drainage and contribute to the mineral backbone and earthy character of the wines.

Map data: INAO, Cadastre, manual adjustments