Château de Béru Chablis Terroirs de Béru 2022

Château de Béru is a historic winery in the heart of Chablis, Burgundy, France. Renowned for its commitment to biodynamic viticulture and low-intervention winemaking, the estate has been revitalized by Athénaïs de Béru, who has transformed it into one of the most innovative producers in the region. The château dates back to the 13th century, and its vineyards have been cultivated for centuries. Situated on the slopes of Mont de Milieu, the estate benefits from the region's iconic Kimmeridgian limestone soils, which impart characteristic minerality and finesse to its wines. The estate spans approximately 15 hectares and is exclusively planted with Chardonnay.

Under Athénaïs' stewardship, the estate has transitioned to biodynamic farming. This approach involves organic practices, biodiversity in the vineyards, and a rejection of synthetic chemicals. Each parcel is treated individually, allowing for an authentic expression of the terroir. In the cellar, Château de Béru employs minimal intervention techniques. Fermentations are carried out with indigenous yeasts, and aging occurs in a mix of stainless steel, concrete, and old oak barrels. The estate avoids fining and filtration and uses minimal sulfur during bottling.

Burgundy, located in eastern France, is one of the world's most prestigious and geographically complex wine-producing areas. It spans from Chablis in the north to the Mâconnais in the south, with the Côte d'Or at the heart of its production. The region is famous for its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines, considered among the finest globally due to its favorable climatic and geological conditions.

Burgundy is divided into five primary wine-producing areas: Chablis, Côte de Nuits, Côte de Beaune, Côte Chalonnaise, and Mâconnais. Each of these areas is known for specific characteristics and qualities of wine, which are heavily influenced by the region's climate and soil composition.

Chablis, the northernmost region, is celebrated for its crisp, mineral-driven white wines made from Chardonnay grapes. The unique Kimmeridgian soil, rich in marine fossils, imparts the distinctive flinty flavors that are a hallmark of Chablis wines.

Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune form the heart of the Burgundy wine region, collectively known as the Côte d'Or. The Côte de Nuits specializes in producing robust, aromatic red wines from Pinot Noir, with famous appellations such as Gevrey-Chambertin and Vosne-Romanée. It is known for producing some of the world's most expensive and sought-after wines.

Côte de Beaune is known more for its exceptional white wines from Chardonnay, including the highly esteemed appellations of Meursault and Puligny-Montrachet, although it also produces excellent reds. This area is famous for wines that combine richness with elegance, complexity, and considerable aging potential.

Côte Chalonnaise and Mâconnais are located south of the Côte d'Or. The Côte Chalonnaise produces both red and white wines but is less known than its northern neighbors. It offers more affordable but still high-quality options. Mâconnais is predominantly recognized for its fruitier and more approachable white wines, particularly from the Pouilly-Fuissé appellation.

The region's wine production is based on a detailed classification system that ranges from regional wines to more specific village and single-vineyard (Premier Cru and Grand Cru) designations. This classification reflects the Burgundian focus on terroir— the specific geographic and climatic conditions of a small parcel of land— and how it influences the character of the wine.

Overall, Burgundy remains a key reference point for winemaking, particularly for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, influencing wine styles and vineyard management practices worldwide. The emphasis on terroir and the detailed appellation system provides a framework that deeply respects the subtleties of the land, resulting in wines that are not only enjoyed but studied and revered around the globe.