Vigne Derrière

Vigne Derrière sits close to the village of Chassagne-Montrachet, positioned against the first houses of the commune. The vineyard occupies east and south-facing slopes at elevations ranging from 220 to 325 metres, placing it within the cooler, higher reaches of the Côte de Beaune. Its proximity to the village and its orientation give it a distinctive microclimate shaped by moderate continental rainfall and altitude-driven temperature moderation.

• Located against the first houses of Chassagne-Montrachet village
• Elevation range of 220 to 325 metres
• East and south-facing aspect captures morning and afternoon sun
• Continental climate with cool conditions at altitude

The soils of Vigne Derrière are defined by clay-limestone bedrock interspersed with rocky outcrops and white marl. White marl is a recurring feature of Chassagne-Montrachet's finest white wine sites, contributing to the vivid mineral character that distinguishes the appellation. The limestone component supports excellent drainage while the clay fraction retains enough moisture to sustain the vines through drier periods. This combination is well suited to Chardonnay, encouraging the variety to produce wines of structure and precision.

• Clay-limestone base with rocky, free-draining sections
• White marl present throughout, a hallmark of top Chassagne sites
• Soil structure supports both drainage and vine water retention
• Geology closely aligned with neighboring premier cru vineyards

Vigne Derrière produces dry white wines that are fuller in body with notable aromatic complexity. The wines carry characteristics described as reminiscent of nearby Montrachet, with a sensual texture and refined finish. Minerality is a defining trait, driven by the white marl and limestone soils beneath. A small volume of lighter red wine is also produced from Pinot Noir, though white Chardonnay dominates production. The combination of altitude, aspect, and soil creates a profile that leans elegant rather than opulent, with finesse as the defining quality.

Vigne Derrière forms part of the Cailleret umbrella appellation within Chassagne-Montrachet, grouped alongside the Combards and Chassagne sections. This grouping reflects the administrative and geographic organization of the commune's premier cru vineyards. Chassagne-Montrachet as a commune has over twelve centuries of viticultural history, and its premier cru vineyards, including Vigne Derrière, represent the refined expression of that long tradition. The classification as premier cru places it firmly in the second tier of Burgundy's quality hierarchy, below grand cru but above village-level wines.

• Part of the Cailleret umbrella alongside Combards and Chassagne sections
• Premier cru classification within Chassagne-Montrachet appellation
• Commune has over twelve centuries of documented viticulture
• No grand cru status, but considered among the finer premier cru sites

Vincent Girardin is among the notable producers working with fruit from Vigne Derrière. Girardin is a well-regarded Côte de Beaune producer with a strong presence across Chassagne-Montrachet's premier cru landscape. The small total area of 3.76 hectares means production volumes are limited, and wines from this vineyard are not widely available in large quantities.