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Viré-Clessé

Burgundy

MâconViré-ClesséViré-Clessé

Mâconnais

A premium Mâconnais appellation known for rich, concentrated Chardonnay with real depth and texture. Viré-Clessé represents some of the finest value in white Burgundy, with wines that can genuinely surprise those more accustomed to the Côte d'Or.

The wines of Viré-Clessé are made primarily from Chardonnay.

206–375 m

Elevation range

85 Vineyards

Avg. slope 4.4°

Vineyard Map

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Nearby Appellations

To the south Mâcon

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Terroir & Character

Climate

Protected from cold northern winds by the hills while benefiting from excellent sun exposure on the southeast-facing slopes, creating a warmer microclimate than much of the Mâconnais. The elevation provides good diurnal temperature variation, preserving acidity while allowing full phenolic ripeness.

Terroir

LimestoneClay

The vineyards sit on Jurassic limestone bedrock from the Bajocian and Bathonian periods, rich in marine fossils including gryphaea and belemnites. The shallow clay-limestone soils overlay this permeable limestone base, creating excellent drainage while allowing vine roots to penetrate deep into fissured bedrock for mineral uptake and water access during dry periods.

Typical Aromas

white peachhoneycitrusalmondmineral
Explore the aroma wheel

Grapes of Viré-Clessé

Chardonnay

White
Body
Sweetness
Acidity
green applelemonpearnectarine

Chardonnay's homeland. Chablis stays steely and citrus-driven, the Côte de Beaune turns rich and hazelnutty, the Mâconnais sits comfortably between.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Viré-Clessé known for?▼
Viré-Clessé is known for producing rich, concentrated Chardonnay with exceptional depth and texture. It's considered a premium Mâconnais appellation that offers some of the finest value in white Burgundy.
What does Viré-Clessé wine taste like?▼
Viré-Clessé wines are rich and concentrated with real depth and texture, offering more complexity than typical Mâconnais wines. The limestone and clay soils contribute to wines with mineral backbone and surprising sophistication that can rival those from the more expensive Côte d'Or.
What grapes are grown in Viré-Clessé?▼
Viré-Clessé exclusively grows Chardonnay grapes. This single-varietal focus allows the appellation to showcase the pure expression of Chardonnay on its limestone and clay soils.
What makes Viré-Clessé different from its neighbors?▼
Viré-Clessé stands out as a premium appellation within the Mâconnais, producing wines with greater concentration and depth than surrounding villages. Its wines offer exceptional value while delivering quality that can genuinely surprise those familiar with higher-priced Côte d'Or Burgundies.
What soil types are found in Viré-Clessé?▼
Viré-Clessé vineyards are planted on limestone and clay soils. This combination provides excellent drainage from the limestone while the clay retains moisture and adds richness to the wines.

Map data: INAO, Cadastre, manual adjustments · Imagery: Sentinel-2 cloudless by EOX IT Services GmbH (CC BY 4.0)