Les Aigrots

Les Aigrots sits on the upper hillside slopes directly west of the city of Beaune, within the broader Côte de Beaune. At higher elevation than many of its neighbors, the vineyard benefits from good drainage and a predominantly southeast-facing aspect, with some parcels oriented east and northeast. This elevated position and variable exposure contribute to the site's distinctive character within the 42-strong roster of Beaune Premier Crus.

• Positioned on upper hillside slopes west of Beaune city center
• Southeast-facing primary aspect with east and northeast variations
• Higher elevation than many Beaune Premier Cru neighbors
• One of 42 classified Premier Cru sites in the Beaune appellation

The soils at Les Aigrots are a clay-limestone mix, technically classified as argile-calcaire, featuring gravelly red clay overlying a limestone bedrock. Compared to the heavier, more clay-dominant soils found in neighboring Pommard, Les Aigrots has a noticeably sandier composition. This lighter texture encourages good drainage and contributes to wines with a more open, fruit-driven character rather than the dense, structured style associated with heavier clay soils.

• Clay-limestone (argile-calcaire) soil type
• Gravelly red clay over limestone subsoil
• Sandier texture than neighboring Pommard vineyards
• Good natural drainage from elevation and soil structure

Les Aigrots produces both red and white wines, with Pinot Noir dominating plantings. The reds are described as fruit-driven and ample, showing red cherry, raspberry, and mineral notes rather than the heavier, more tannic profile of Pommard. The whites, where planted, lean toward pear and floral aromatics with a creamy mid-palate texture. The combination of higher elevation, sandy clay-limestone soils, and southeast exposure supports wines with freshness alongside generous fruit expression.

• Reds: red cherry, raspberry, mineral character; fruit-driven and ample
• Whites: pear, floral notes, creamy texture
• Style sits between the weight of Pommard and lighter Beaune crus
• Elevation contributes freshness and defined acidity

The name Les Aigrots derives from the Old Burgundian word 'aigrot,' meaning holly, which traces back to the Latin 'Argifolium.' This etymological connection points to the historic land use and vegetation of the upper Beaune slopes before viticulture took hold. The vineyard also appears under the alternate designations Clos des Aigrots and Clos Les Aigrots, reflecting the Burgundian tradition of enclosing or historically walling vineyard parcels.

• Name from Old Burgundian 'aigrot' meaning holly (Latin: Argifolium)
• Alternate names include Clos des Aigrots and Clos Les Aigrots
• 'Clos' designations reflect the Burgundian tradition of enclosed vineyard parcels

Several respected Burgundian domaines hold parcels in Les Aigrots. Domaine de Montille and Domaine Michel Lafarge are among the most prestigious names associated with the site, both known for precise, terroir-focused winemaking across the Côte de Beaune. Domaine Albert Morot, a Beaune specialist, also produces from here, alongside Vincent Girardin, Albert Bichot, and Sébastien Magnien. Individual parcel sizes vary considerably, with documented holdings ranging from 0.49 to 0.75 hectares.

• Domaine de Montille: top-tier Côte de Beaune producer with holdings in Les Aigrots
• Domaine Michel Lafarge: historic Volnay estate with Beaune Premier Cru presence
• Domaine Albert Morot: Beaune-based specialist with deep local vineyard knowledge
• Vincent Girardin, Albert Bichot, and Sébastien Magnien also represent the site