Vins de Givry

The Wines of Givry: Treasure of the Côte Chalonnaise

Introduction

Givry, a prestigious appellation of the Côte Chalonnaise, is especially renowned for its red wines made from the Pinot Noir grape. However, it also produces white wines from Chardonnay. Givry is a relatively small appellation, covering about 280 hectares, of which 237 hectares are dedicated to red wines. Among these hectares, 122 are classified as Premier Cru, highlighting the exceptional quality of some of its terroirs. The wines of Givry, although often less known compared to their counterparts from the Côte de Beaune or the Côte de Nuits, deserve particular attention for their unique character and finesse.

History and Terroir

History of Givry

The village of Givry and its vineyards have a rich viticultural history that dates back several centuries. As early as the Middle Ages, Cistercian and Benedictine monks played a crucial role in developing viticulture in this region. Their expertise and dedication to viticulture allowed them to identify the best terroirs and perfect winemaking techniques.

Terroir of Givry

The terroir of Givry is varied and complex, offering a diversity of soils that contribute to the uniqueness of its wines. Clay-limestone soils predominate, providing excellent drainage and allowing the vines to draw the necessary minerals for their growth. The varied exposures of the plots, ranging from southeast to southwest, enable optimal ripening of the grapes, essential for developing the aromas and structure of the wines.

The Red Wines of Givry

Pinot Noir: The King Grape of Givry

Pinot Noir is the emblematic grape variety of Givry's red wines. This noble grape, renowned for its finesse and ability to express terroir, finds an ideal environment in Givry to thrive. The red wines of Givry, although often closed in their early years, reveal after a few years in the bottle a complex and delicate aromatic palette, with notes of red fruits, spices, and sometimes undergrowth.

Characteristics of Givry's Red Wines

The red wines of Givry are known for their balanced tannic structure and freshness. In their youth, they can be quite closed and austere, but after three to five years of aging, they soften and become round and delicate. The best crus can age even longer, developing secondary and tertiary aromas of great complexity.

The Premier Crus of Givry

Among the 38 climats classified as Premier Cru in Givry, some stand out particularly for their quality and reputation. Clos Vernoy, Clos du Cellier aux Moines, Clos Salomon, Crouzot, La Brulée, and Le Vernoy are some of the most emblematic names. These crus benefit from exceptional terroir conditions, allowing the production of wines of great finesse and remarkable aromatic complexity.

Lieux-dits of Givry

In addition to the Premier Crus, the Givry appellation includes over 25 lieux-dits. These specific plots, although not classified as Premier Cru, produce high-quality wines that also deserve the attention of enthusiasts. The lieux-dits contribute to the diversity and richness of the appellation, offering a multitude of nuances and expressions of Pinot Noir.

The White Wines of Givry

Chardonnay: The Grape of Givry's Whites

Although red wines dominate in Givry, white wines made from the Chardonnay grape also hold an important place in the appellation. Chardonnay, the emblematic grape of Burgundy, also thrives on Givry's terroirs, producing white wines of great elegance and finesse.

Characteristics of Givry's White Wines

Givry's white wines are distinguished by their freshness, minerality, and balance. They often present aromas of white fruits, flowers, and subtle notes of hazelnut and butter, characteristic of Burgundian Chardonnays. Their well-present acid structure allows them to age gracefully, developing more complex aromas and a rounder texture over time.

Vinification and Aging

Vinification Techniques

Vinification in Givry follows traditional Burgundian methods, adapted to highlight the typicity of each grape variety and terroir. For reds, maceration is often long, allowing optimal extraction of aromas and tannins. Fermentations generally take place in open vats, with regular punch-downs to promote contact between the must and the skins.

Aging in Oak Barrels

The aging of Givry wines, whether red or white, is mostly done in oak barrels. This practice brings complexity and depth to the wines without masking the intrinsic characteristics of the fruit and terroir. The use of new barrels is often limited to avoid too much influence of wood on the wine, thus favoring elegance and purity of aromas.

Tasting and Food Pairings

Tasting the Red Wines

To fully appreciate Givry's red wines, it is recommended to let them age a few years in the bottle. Once opened, they should be decanted to allow the aromas to fully unfold. On tasting, one will find notes of cherry, raspberry, sweet spices, and sometimes nuances of truffle and undergrowth.

Food Pairings with Givry's Reds

Givry's red wines pair perfectly with refined cuisine. They wonderfully accompany grilled or roasted red meats, game dishes, and matured cheeses. A beef bourguignon, a leg of lamb, or spiced duck breast are particularly judicious choices.

Tasting the White Wines

Givry's white wines can be enjoyed young but can also age a few years to develop more complex aromas. Upon opening, they reveal aromas of green apple, pear, white flowers, and honey, with a fresh and mineral palate.

Food Pairings with Givry's Whites

Givry's white wines are ideal to accompany seafood, grilled fish, creamy poultry dishes, or soft cheeses. A platter of oysters, grilled salmon, or Bresse chicken in cream sauce are pairings that highlight the finesse and elegance of Givry's Chardonnays.

Producers and Estates of Givry

Renowned Domains

Givry has many reputed wine estates, each bringing their personal touch to wine production. Among the best-known are Domaine Joblot, famous for its Premier Crus, Domaine Sarrazin, and Domaine Besson, which produce wines of great purity and remarkable finesse.

Visits and Wine Tourism

For wine lovers, a visit to Givry is an unmissable experience. Many estates open their doors to visitors, offering tastings and guided tours of the vineyards and cellars. This immersion allows a better understanding of the terroir, winemaking techniques, and the history of Givry wines.

Conclusion

Givry wines, although often overshadowed by the more prestigious appellations of Burgundy, offer a richness and diversity that deserve to be discovered. Whether through their red wines from Pinot Noir or their white wines based on Chardonnay, the winemakers of Givry demonstrate expertise and passion that translate into every bottle. For wine enthusiasts seeking finesse, elegance, and authenticity, Givry is an appellation not to be missed.

With its 280 hectares of vines, of which 237 are dedicated to Pinot Noir and 122 classified as Premier Cru, Givry is a hidden treasure of the Côte Chalonnaise. Its renowned climats, such as Clos Vernoy, Clos du Cellier aux Moines, and Clos Salomon, produce wines of exceptional quality. Givry's reds, although closed in their youth, blossom over time to reveal delicate aromas and a refined structure. The whites, for their part, seduce with their freshness and elegance.

In sum, Givry wines are a vibrant testament to the Burgundian terroir and the art of viticulture. They fully deserve their place on the tables of connoisseurs and wine lovers around the world.