Pommard French wine appellation guide: location, history, wines, climate & soil
Pommard is one of the most famous red-wine villages of the Côte de Beaune in Burgundy, known for full-bodied, firmly structured Pinot Noir that ages beautifully.
More info about Pommard
Geographic position
Eastern France, in the Côte-d'Or department, just south of Beaune, between Beaune and Volnay, at the mouth of a small valley along the D973 road.
Origin & history
The name may come from a Gallo-Roman temple dedicated to Pomona, goddess of fruit. In the Middle Ages the Dukes of Burgundy and the monks of Cîteaux owned vineyards here, and Pommard was a favourite of Victor Hugo and the French kings. It became an AOC in 1936.
Wines & grape varieties
Red wine only, from 100% Pinot Noir. Expect dark cherry, blackberry, plum, spice and earthy notes, with powerful tannins. There are 28 Premiers Crus, the best known being Les Rugiens and Les Épenots.
Climate & soil
Semi-continental climate. East- and southeast-facing slopes of clay-limestone and marl, with iron-rich red clay in Les Rugiens, giving depth and structure.
Wine region: Burgundy
Grape varieties: Pinot Noir