Mâcon is one of the largest cities in Burgundy-Franche-Comté. Capital of the Mâconnais, it has a vineyard that stretches over some fifty kilometres. It is the latter that produces the wines of the Mâcon appellation.
Overview of Mâcon
Situated on the west bank of the Saône, the commune of Mâcon is surrounded by vineyards. The composition of its soil allows winegrowers to plant chardonnay for white wines and pinot noir, as well as gamay for reds and rosés. In 1937, an AOC for these products was created.
The appellation is divided into three groups. You will discover the Mâcon prepared on 84.33 hectares. These wines are followed by the Mâcon-Villages (1,884.65 hectares) and the Mâcon accompanied by a village name (1,376.84 hectares). In addition to these appellations, the Mâcon vineyards also have 5 other crus.
The changing nature of the soil (limestone, silica, sand...) gives Mâcon wines pronounced flavours. Thus, the whites display a white gold or straw yellow gold hue with a taste of citrus fruits, acacia, honeysuckle or lemongrass. When tasting Mâcon red wines, you will smell red and black fruits, prunes or mushrooms.
Mâcon wines can be kept for almost 3 years and reveal all their flavours when served at between 10 and 15 degrees depending on their type. The red wines go perfectly with beef, rabbit and charcuterie. The white wines sublimate poultry, fish and goat cheese. Pink wines go perfectly with pizza and cold meats.
The Mâconnais-Beaujolais wine route for a tasting of Mâcon wines
The Mâconnais-Beaujolais wine route is located west of Mâcon. It is 75 km long and crosses 78 communes. This itinerary is aimed at wine tourists who wish to discover the wine-growing region and carry out wine tastings of Mâcon wines.
Pass through the town of Mâcon and let yourself be charmed by its many religious buildings, places of entertainment and the surrounding vineyards. And of course, don't forget to visit the cellars of Mâcon.
Further afield, you will find various estates producing Mâcon appellation wines and great white wines such as Saint-Véran, Pouilly-Loché or Pouilly-Fuissé. In addition to the wineries, admire the historical heritage of the region. Romanesque churches, prehistoric caves and ancient castles are just waiting for you.
Visit Mâcon cellars, places to see
Here are some addresses to know for your visits of cellars in the surroundings of Mâcon.
The Château des Bachelards
For a tasting of Mâcon wines, go to the Château des Bachelards. Located in Fleurie, this estate stands out from all the others thanks to its double Bio and Biodynamic certification. Covering 12 hectares, 6 of which are used for the production of the Fleurie appellation, this vineyard has won numerous awards for its wines.
If you stop here, take a walk in the vineyards and discover the different processes related to biodynamics. You can also have a picnic in the vineyard. And of course, there will be the unmissable Mâcon wine tasting.
The estate La Rizolière
Located in Vauxrenard, this vineyard has been run by the same family for four generations. Every year, the estate offers many drinks with rich and fruity flavours.
During your visit, take a tour of this winery near Mâcon and Lyon. Stroll through the vineyard and discover the different grape varieties planted there.
You can also learn about the winemaking methods used by the owners of the premises. Finally, you will end your visit with a tasting of Mâcon wines.
Some of these winemakers wines are available Buy wine online