Corton-Charlemagne

Corton Charlemagne is a Grand Cru vineyard located in the village of Aloxe-Corton, on the highest slopes south-west of the hill of Corton in the Côte de Beaune. It is located in the municipalities of Aloxe-Corton, Pernand-Vergelesses and Ladoix-Serrigny, with Chardonnay being the only grape variety allowed.

The story of the so-called Corton-Charlemagne goes back to the early Middle Ages. Legend has it that the owner, Emperor Charlemagne, had a certain part of the hill planted with vines because he saw that the snow melted fastest here. The choice to plant a part with white grapes is said to be due to Karel's fourth wife. She thought red wine stained her husband's white beard. These specific vineyards continue today for the so-called Corton-Charlemagne.