Nuits-Saint-Georges: The First AOC

In 1936, when France created the AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) system, Nuits-Saint-Georges was the first Burgundy region to receive classification. This is the commercial heart of the Côte de Nuits - more négociants per capita than anywhere else, and 41 Premier Crus to explore.

What to do there

3 things to do

1. 1 Visit the Imaginarium Wine · Price: low

   The modern wine museum explaining Burgundy winemaking.

   The Imaginarium is at Avenue du Jura (north edge of town). Entry ~€10-15, includes a tasting. Interactive exhibits explain fermentation and barrel aging. End in the tasting room - try at least 3 wines blind before seeing labels. It's especially good for visual learners.

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2. 2 Find the 1936 AOC Plaque History · Free

   Locate the marker commemorating the first Burgundy AOC classification.

   Walk to the Maison du Tourisme on Rue Sonoys. Ask staff to point you to the AOC historical markers in the old town. The 1936 classification stone is near the church of Saint-Symphorien. If you can't find it, any local will know.

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3. 3 Taste at Domaine de la Vougeraie Wine · Price: moderate · Optional

   One of the top producers, owned by the Boisset family.

   Book at vougeraie.com - tastings from €35. Located in Prémeaux-Prissey (10 min south). They farm biodynamically across 40+ hectares including Grand Crus. Ask to compare their Nuits-Saint-Georges 1er Cru Les Saint-Georges with a village wine.

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Insider tips

• Les Saint-Georges Premier Cru should probably be Grand Cru - it was just classified before the Grand Cru category existed

• The Saturday morning market is one of Burgundy's best - pair with wine shop visits

• Domaine Faiveley has excellent tours if Vougeraie is booked