Terroirs and Grapevine Varieties

The climate of Aloxe-Corton is temperate and semi-continental. The landscape is dominated by the Corton hillside, some of the slopes being too steep to use a tractor. The hillside itself is crowned with woods. The three varieties of grape that are cultivated in the village are the classic Burgundy names: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Aligoté. These are the source of the red and white wines produced on the Domaine Maurice CHAPUIS. Despite a very limited production area, the variety of wines is a very rich due to the extremely diverse range of soils, sub-soils and microclimates. The vines bearing the village appellation "Aloxe-Corton" are grown on chalky clay soils that are rich in potassium and phosphoric acid, the resulting wines are therefore supple, fruity and well- balanced. On the best exposed slopes of the hillside are the vines that benefit from the Appellation "Aloxe-Corton Premier Cru". The wines have more structure and have a greater potential (with cellaring). Halfway up the hillside, the reddish stony soil with its iron rich oolites produces a beautiful, firm, elegant, straightforward Grand Cru: "Corton". This wine has exceptional keeping qualities. On the very steep slopes of the Corton hillside we also have marl rich soils which favour the elaboration of "Corton Charlemagne", a legendary white Grand Cru with flowery aromas and fruity bouquet. Also known for its keeping qualities, this stylish wine has a beautiful golden colour and is full of vigour.