Why Auxey-Duresses Deserves a Spot in Your Burgundy Collection
Auxey-Duresses is a lesser-known Burgundian denomination but capable of providing great emotions, both in the reds and the whites. It is perfect for those looking for the refinement of Burgundy without the stellar prices of the most renowned crus, maintaining a decent quality/price ratio.
The production area
Auxey-Duresses is located next to Meursault and Volnay, in the heart of the Côte de Beaune. The vineyards extend over approximately 134 hectares, of which approximately 35 hectares are classified as Premier Cru. The soils are based on calcareous marl for the whites and more clayey for the reds, with exposures that vary from south-east to east, guaranteeing excellent ripeness.
The basics
- Name: Auxey-Duresses AOC
- Region: Burgundy, France
- Grapes: Chardonnay (for whites), Pinot Noir (for reds)
- Extension: approximately 134 hectares (of which 35 Premier Cru)
- Alcohol content: 12.5–13.5%
- Types: white and still red
- Serving temperature: 12–14°C (whites), 14–16°C (reds)
- Format: 750 ml
Organoleptic characteristics
The whites are bright golden in color, with notes of hazelnut, citrus, butter and white flowers, fresh and mineral in the mouth. The reds have a bright ruby color, with aromas of cherry, peony, light spices and an earthy touch. On the palate they are elegant, medium-bodied, with silky tannins and great balance.
How it’s made: grape variety, vinification, aging
The white wines from Chardonnay are vinified in barriques and aged for 12–18 months, while the red wines follow a traditional vinification with fermentation in vats and aging in wood, often with a moderate percentage of new barriques (20–30%).
Food pairings
The white wines are ideal with grilled fish, white meats and creamy cheeses such as Brie de Meaux, Tomme de Savoie and fresh Caprino. The red wines pair well with roast duck, sautéed mushrooms, stuffed quails, pulled pork, empanadas, hamburgers and cheeses such as Reblochon, aged Pecorino Toscano and Fontina DOP.
Average price
The Auxey-Duresses village wines start at around 35–45 euros, while the Premier Cru wines can reach 70–90 euros. Renowned producers such as Domaine Lafouge, Domaine Jean & Gilles Lafouge and Domaine Michel Prunier offer excellent bottles.
Iconic producers to taste
- Domaine Lafouge: reliability and precision.
- Domaine Michel Prunier: tradition and cleanliness.
- Domaine Jean-Marc Vincent: elegance and minerality.
- Domaine Alain Gras: freshness and definition.
- Domaine Henri Darnat: balance and drinkability.
History and curiosities
Auxey-Duresses has a very ancient history linked to viticulture, dating back to the Gallo-Roman era. It is considered a “bridge” appellation between the refinement of Meursault (in the whites) and the structure of Volnay (in the reds), offering wines that combine the best of both worlds.
