Aloxe-Corton

One of the Village and Premier Cru appellations that lie on the lower parts of the Corton hill, Aloxe-Corton produces robust, full-bodied Pinot Noirs that require less aging — and are cheaper — than their grand cru neighbors.

The soil is a reddish-brown marl with flint and limestone. Wines from the northern end tend to be gentler, more tender and fruity. Those from the south more firm and complex.

The Premier Crus vineyards (such as Les Chaillots) are not as high up the hill as the Corton Grand Crus vineyards, but are still high on the hillside. The Village appellations, by contrast, (such as Les Boutières) lie further downslope.

Age 3-5 years before drinking.