Route des Grands Crus a scenic wine route in Burgundy

The Route des Grands Crus is a scenic wine route in Burgundy, France, that stretches approximately 60 kilometers through the Côte d'Or department, from Dijon in the north to Santenay in the south. This picturesque route takes visitors through some of the most prestigious vineyards and charming villages in the Burgundy wine region, offering an unparalleled experience for wine enthusiasts and travelers alike.

Highlights

Scenic Beauty

• Landscape: The route winds through rolling vineyards, lush countryside, and quaint villages. The landscapes are especially beautiful in the autumn when the vineyards turn golden.

World-Class Vineyards

• Famous Vineyards: The route passes through many of Burgundy’s most renowned wine-producing villages, including Gevrey-Chambertin, Vosne-Romanée, Nuits-Saint-Georges, Beaune, and Pommard. These areas produce some of the finest Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines in the world.

Historic Sites

• Châteaux and Churches: Along the route, you'll find historic châteaux, medieval churches, and other landmarks, such as the Château de Clos de Vougeot, a 12th-century castle that now serves as the headquarters of the Confrérie des Chevaliers du Tastevin (an esteemed wine fraternity).

Wine Tasting

• Cellar Tours: Many vineyards and wineries along the route offer tours and tastings. Visitors can sample a variety of wines, learn about the winemaking process, and purchase bottles directly from the producers.

• Wine Shops: The route features numerous wine shops where you can taste and buy a wide range of Burgundy wines.

Gastronomy

• Local Cuisine: The region is famous for its gastronomy. Along the route, you can enjoy traditional Burgundian dishes such as Boeuf Bourguignon, Coq au Vin, and Escargots de Bourgogne in local restaurants and bistros.

• Michelin-Starred Restaurants: There are several Michelin-starred restaurants along the route, offering gourmet dining experiences paired with exquisite local wines.

Key Villages and Towns

• Dijon

  • Highlights: The starting point of the route, known for its rich history, cultural sites, and culinary delights, including the famous Dijon mustard.

• Gevrey-Chambertin

  • Highlights: Renowned for its robust red wines. Key attractions include the Château de Gevrey-Chambertin and various wine cellars.

• Vosne-Romanée

  • Highlights: Home to some of the world’s most prestigious vineyards, such as Domaine de la Romanée-Conti.

• Nuits-Saint-Georges

  • Highlights: Known for its high-quality red wines and charming village atmosphere. The Cassissium, a museum dedicated to blackcurrants, is also located here.

• Beaune

  • Highlights: Often considered the wine capital of Burgundy, Beaune is famous for the Hospices de Beaune, a historic hospital with a beautiful tiled roof and a renowned wine auction.

• Pommard

  • Highlights: Known for its full-bodied red wines. Visitors can explore local wine estates and enjoy scenic views.

• Meursault

  • Highlights: Celebrated for its exceptional white wines. The village is picturesque with its traditional Burgundian architecture and vineyards.

• Puligny-Montrachet

  • Highlights: Produces some of the best white wines in the world. Wine tastings and vineyard tours are popular activities here.

• Chassagne-Montrachet

  • Highlights: Known for its fine white and red wines. The village offers wine tours and tastings.

• Santenay

  • Highlights: The southern end of the route, known for its vineyards, thermal spa, and the historic Château de Santenay.

Practical Information

Traveling the Route des Grands Crus in Burgundy is a delightful experience for wine enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike. Here are some travel tips to enhance your journey:

Plan Ahead

• Book Appointments: Many vineyards and wineries require appointments for tours and tastings. Plan and book these in advance to ensure availability.

• Research Vineyards: Some vineyards are more exclusive than others. Research which ones are open to the public and fit your interests.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring and Autumn: These seasons offer pleasant weather and stunning vineyard scenery. Autumn, in particular, is beautiful with the grape harvest and changing leaves.

• Avoid High Summer: While summer is warm, it can also be crowded. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for a more relaxed experience.

Transportation

• Rent a Car: The most convenient way to explore the Route des Grands Crus is by car. This allows you to travel at your own pace and visit more remote vineyards.

• Cycling: For a more active approach, consider cycling. The route is relatively flat and well-marked, making it suitable for cyclists.

• Guided Tours: If you prefer not to drive, consider joining a guided wine tour. These tours often include transportation, vineyard visits, and tastings.

Accommodation

• Stay in Beaune: Beaune is centrally located and offers a wide range of accommodation options, from charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels.

• Village Stays: For a more immersive experience, consider staying in smaller villages like Pommard, Meursault, or Vosne-Romanée.

Dining

• Local Cuisine: Take the opportunity to enjoy traditional Burgundian dishes such as Boeuf Bourguignon, Coq au Vin, and Escargots de Bourgogne.

• Restaurant Reservations: Popular restaurants, especially those with Michelin stars, can fill up quickly. Make reservations in advance.

Wine Tasting Etiquette

• Pace Yourself: With so many wines to taste, it’s important to pace yourself. Don’t feel obliged to finish every glass.

• Spitting is Okay: It’s common practice to spit out wine during tastings, especially if you’re visiting multiple vineyards in a day.

• Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask the winemakers questions about their wines, vineyards, and the winemaking process. They are usually happy to share their knowledge.

Cultural Etiquette

• Greet in French: A simple “Bonjour” when entering shops or restaurants is appreciated. It shows respect for the local culture.

• Respect the Vines: When visiting vineyards, avoid touching the vines or grapes. They are the winemaker’s livelihood.

Explore Beyond Wine

• Historic Sites: Don’t miss historic sites like the Hospices de Beaune, Château du Clos de Vougeot, and the medieval streets of Dijon.

• Scenic Stops: Take time to enjoy the scenic beauty of the region, whether it’s through a hike, a picnic, or simply relaxing in the vineyards.

Shopping for Wine

• Wine Shipping: If you’re buying wine to take home, ask about shipping options. Many vineyards can ship directly to your home country.

• Local Wine Shops: Explore local wine shops in towns like Beaune for a wider selection of regional wines.

Safety

• Drink Responsibly: Ensure you have a designated driver if you’re planning to taste wines throughout the day.

• Navigation: Use a GPS or detailed map to navigate the route, as some vineyards can be off the beaten path.