Corton, Grand Cru vineyard in Côte de Beaune, France

Corton is a Grand Cru vineyard on the lower slopes of the Corton hill, shared by Aloxe-Corton, Pernand-Vergelesses and Ladoix in the Côte de Beaune. Its 94.78 hectares of vines in production in 2008 are divided into named climats such as Clos du Roi and Les Bressandes, which often appear on labels. The slope rises in bands of vines to a wooded crest.

A vine on this slope was reportedly given by Emperor Charlemagne in 775 to the collegiate church of Saint-Andoche in Saulieu. From the 12th century, Cîteaux Abbey held about 35 hectares at Aloxe, including vines in the clos de Courthon. The dukes of Burgundy's clos became the clos du Roi after Charles the Bold's fall and the duchy's annexation by Louis XI. The AOC was created in 1937.

Winemakers here follow traditional methods passed down through families, each focusing on bringing out the distinct qualities of their individual vineyard plots. This hands-on craft approach continues to define the character of wines from this land.

The area is best visited during the grape harvest in autumn, when the vineyards are active and local events take place. Walking paths run through the vineyard plots, offering views across the landscape and chances to visit individual wine producers.

It is the only red wine area with this top classification in Côte de Beaune. The combination of its hillside location and the particular soil conditions that shape the wines make this exceptional status possible among Burgundy wine regions.