Definition: Couchois (Côte du)

It is little known, now associated with the Côte Chalonnaise, but forming a separate entity that has had its own appellation since 2000. On a south-southeast facing slope, it includes the communes of Couches and Dracy-lès-Couches. Saint-Jean-de-Trézy, Saint-Maurice-lès-Couches, Saint-Pierre-de-Varennes and Saint-Sernin-du-Plain. The grape varieties grown are Burgundian, primarily Pinot Noir, with a yield limited to 48 hl/ha; then 100 ha of Gamay Blanc; 15 ha of Aligoté; 10 hectare of Chardonnay. The tannic reds are a little rough in their youth, but after three or four years, beautiful raspberry aromas are released, making them indistinguishable from Chambolle-Musigny. It is worth discovering these surprises at prices that are still very reasonable.