The Corton appellation is located on Burgundy's Route des Grands Crus in the emblematic Côte de Beaune, one of France's most prestigious wine-growing sub-regions. Nestled at the foot of the famous Corton hill, this appellation covers some 150 hectares across three communes: Aloxe-Corton, Ladoix-Serrigny, and Pernand-Vergelesses.
Corton achieved Grand Cru status in 1937, but its reputation dates back to the time of Charlemagne, who is said to have ordered the first plantings of white grapes to prevent the wine from staining his beard. The first plantings were of Aligoté grapes, before the arrival of Chardonnay. Today, Corton white wines are among the most expensive in the world.
The appellation's rich terroir makes Corton a true gem of Burgundy, prized by wine lovers the world over. The terroir is characterized by soils composed mainly of marl, limestone and stone, typical of Burgundy's Côte de Beaune. 88 hectares are dedicated to the red wines and around 4 hectares for the white wines.
Corton is unique in Burgundy, being the only Côte de Beaune appellation to produce wines classified as Grand Cru in both red and white. Red wines made from Pinot Noir are renowned for their power, structure and ageing capacity, with aromas of black fruits, undergrowth and sometimes spicy notes. White wines, made from Chardonnay, are distinguished by their minerality, finesse and aromatic complexity, often offering notes of citrus, white flowers and honey.
Among the estates in this appellation are : Domaine Albert Bichot, Maison Joseph Drouhin, Domaine de la Romanée Conti, Domaine Lucien Le Moine, Domaine Faiveley, Domaine Ninot, Domaine Leroy, Maison Joseph Drouhin and Domaine de la Vougeraie.