Located about 70 miles northwest from Dijon, the area around Auxerre once enjoyed a reputation for great Pinot Noir until its thunder was stolen by Côte d'Or. As the northernmost growing region for a black grape, the villages of Augy, Saint-Bris-le-Vineux, Auxerre, Vaux, Quenne, Irancy, Vincelottes, Champs-sur-Yonne, and the surrounding Bourgogne AOC cannot compete with the lower Burgundy for richness and depth. However, if you enjoy dry, mineral-driven wines that can be consumed early, check...

Pairs With: Roasted Chicken

In order to keep a healthy vineyard, Château Carbonnieux replants at least one or two plots of vines each year. For several years, these young plants will produce almost nothing, then they will produce grapes whose aromatic characteristics are not sufficiently rich to be included in the composition of a “cru classé” like Château Carbonnieux. This is why the juices of these young plants (for about 12 years) are used to craft second wines.

Pairs With: Oysters, Roasted Chicken, Mussels