📍 Mâconnais

The Mâconnais is the southern part of Burgundy in France, known for white wines from Chardonnay. The name comes from the town of Mâcon on the Saône river.

The hills of the Mâconnais are made of limestone and clay. Mostly Chardonnay is grown here, while reds are made from Gamay and Pinot Noir. The region has several appellations: Mâcon, Saint-Véran, Pouilly-Fuissé, Pouilly-Loché, Pouilly-Vinzelles and Viré-Clessé. The most prestigious is considered to be Pouilly-Fuissé, whose vineyards lie below the cliffs of Solutré and Vergisson.

Mâconnais wines are usually softer and cheaper than those of northern Burgundy, for example from the Côte d'Or Chablis. They give fresh, fruity wines with notes of apple, citrus and flowers. The best examples are aged in oak, which makes them richer. The Mâconnais belongs to the wines of Burgundy and is one of the best-known areas for white Chardonnay. Many people start their introduction to Burgundy with these wines, as they are approachable and pleasant.