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Corton Grand Cru is one of the most important Grand Cru appellations of the Côte de Beaune and the only Grand Cru in the Côte de Beaune producing both red and white wines. The appellation covers vineyards in three communes – Aloxe-Corton, Ladoix-Serrigny and Pernand-Vergelesses – on the famous Corton hill. The Corton appellation was established in 1937.
Corton Hill is characterised by complex geology and different combinations of elevation and exposure. The vineyards are located at approximately 250–330 metres above sea level, on slopes forming a natural amphitheatre. Limestone is particularly important in the upper layers, while clay and marl become more prominent lower down. As a result, the different Climats can produce wines with distinctly different structures and aromatic profiles.
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France
France
Red Corton is predominantly made from 'Pinot Noir'. These wines generally show greater structure, concentration and tannic depth than many other red Grand Crus of the Côte de Beaune. Red and black fruit aromas are supported by a dense yet elegant texture. The individual Climat plays an important role, meaning that Corton does not represent a single uniform wine style.
White Corton is considerably rarer and is made mainly from 'Chardonnay'. These wines combine mineral structure with citrus and white-fruit character, while mature examples can develop notes of butter, baked apple, honey, cinnamon and flint. White Corton has good ageing potential, with the appellation's wines generally developing over several years and the finest examples capable of much longer maturation.
The distinctive character of Corton Grand Cru lies not simply in its Grand Cru status, but in the diversity of its Climats. The exact position of a vineyard on Corton Hill is therefore essential to understanding the character of the wine.
