Auxey-Duresses in springAuxey-Duresses in spring
©Côte-d'Or Attractivité - Rozenn Krebel

Auxey-Duresses

Auxey-Duresses: the heritage of the Druids on the Burgundy Grands Crus Route

Between vineyards and valleys, every stone in the village of Auxey-Duresses echoes with the footsteps of yesterday’s druids and today’s winegrowers. Here, the atmosphere changes from that of a Celtic sanctuary to that of a vibrant wine-growing village, nestling in an exceptional setting at the heart of the Route des Grands Crus de Bourgogne in the Côte-d’Or. Halfway between the Côte de Beaune and the Hautes-Côtes de Beaune, and just a stone’s throw from Meursault, Pommard, La Rochepot and Saint-Romain, this village has that little bit of magic that can’t be explained. Here, wine is a traditional potion crafted since the 2nd century. It’s the kind of place where you think the druids clearly had good taste!

Getting there

A village of druids, monks and vines

Before it became a Pinot Noir mecca, the site was an ancient druidic place of worship. Each hamlet has its own special character: Mont-Mélian and its Gallo-Roman site, Auxey-le-Petit and its 12th-century church, Melin and its 16th-century château. The stones still seem to vibrate with history, as if the echoes of ancient rites were mingling today with the murmur of the wine presses.

Must-sees in the village

The Auxey-Duresses appellation (pronounced Aussey), created in 1937, boasts 9 Premier Cru Climats. Here, the Pinot Noir produces a supple, fruity ruby colour, while the Chardonnay shines with its almond-like freshness and minerality. Time passes, but the magic remains: a golden or red potion that captures the spirit of the marl-limestone hillsides.

A 10-minute walk takes you to the dry-stone huts where winegrowers once sheltered. An hour is all it takes to take in the panoramic views over the valley towards La Rochepot. These walks can be found on the Balades en Bourgogne app, ideal for exploring Auxey-Duresses and the surrounding area on foot and at your own pace. A simple, lively experience, perfect for feeling the soul of a wine-growing village sculpted by time.

Festival, fete, market, tasting: here, local life cultivates sharing as much as the vine. The Coup d’œil, coup de cœur event brings a joyful energy to the village, with a mix of entertainment, discovery and a warm atmosphere.

Ready to awaken your inner Druid?

Auxey-Duresses is a rare blend of deep, authentic history and simple pleasures. You come here to breathe in the terroir, taste an exceptional potion and be surprised by the warm atmosphere. And you leave… a little enchanted.

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