Names mean a lot here, and in the commune of Beaune, considered the wine capital of Burgundy, there is no shortage of them. There are some fabulous smaller producers to get to know – usually a great way of discovering both quality and value. The appellation Beaune includes an astounding 42 Premier Crus produced within the commune of Beaune itself. But Beaune has much to offer for the visitor alongside the delights of the vine. The Hospice de Beaune, with its gorgeous colored roof tiles is a must-see, especially on the third Sunday in November when it hosts its renowned annual wine auction. Also worthy of a visit are Les Ramparts de Beaune – the town’s fortified walls, built to withstand an onslaught of barbarians in a tumultuous period in its history over seven hundred years ago. Happily, the visitors nowadays are more likely to be crowds of wine lovers rather than barbarians, and they can enjoy the town’s excellent hospitality, all built on the fabulous wines it produces.
Beaune