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Vézelay

Burgundy

Chardonnay from the rolling hills near the historic pilgrimage town of Vézelay in the Yonne. These are fresh, pure whites with a distinctive character, and the appellation is still young enough that exploring it feels like being in on a secret.

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

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Terroir & Classification

Soils

LimestoneMarl

The vineyards are planted on Jurassic limestone bedrock from the Kimmeridgian and Oxfordian periods, mixed with Kimmeridgian marl containing fossilized oyster shells (Exogyra virgula). This well-draining calcareous substrate forces vine roots to penetrate deeply into the fractured limestone, while the marl provides water retention during dry periods.

Classification

Village appellation. No classified premier cru vineyards, but the village-level wines consistently offer genuine Burgundy character at approachable prices.

Elevation

200-300m, primarily southeast and southwest-facing slopes

Microclimate

The elevated position and rolling hills create good air circulation and drainage, resulting in cooler nights that preserve acidity while the southeast exposures ensure adequate ripening. The proximity to the Cure valley provides some moderating influence against extreme temperature variations.

Typical Aromas

white flowerscitrus zestwet stonesgreen applehazelnutmineral salinity

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 Vézelay known for?▼
Vézelay is known for producing distinctive Chardonnay wines from the rolling hills near the historic pilgrimage town in Burgundy's Yonne department. It's a relatively young appellation that offers fresh, pure white wines with a unique character that feels like discovering a hidden gem.
What does Vézelay wine taste like?▼
Vézelay wines are fresh and pure with a distinctive character that sets them apart from other Burgundian Chardonnays. The limestone and marl soils contribute to their clean, mineral-driven profile with bright acidity.
What grapes are grown in Vézelay?▼
Vézelay exclusively grows Chardonnay grapes. The appellation is dedicated to producing white wines from this classic Burgundian variety.
What makes Vézelay different from its neighbors?▼
Vézelay stands out for its distinctive terroir in the rolling hills near the historic pilgrimage town, producing Chardonnays with a unique character. As a relatively young appellation, it offers an authentic, undiscovered feel compared to more established Burgundian regions.
What soil types are found in Vézelay?▼
Vézelay's vineyards are planted on limestone and marl soils. These calcareous soils are ideal for Chardonnay and contribute to the fresh, mineral character of the wines.

Map data: INAO, Cadastre, manual adjustments