SET in the heart of the Auxois countryside you will find the vineyard of Le Domaine de Flavigny-Alésia.
The trellised vineyards on the slopes behind Le Domaine give forth beautiful grapes.
Here you can taste the wines from Flavigny, one of the oldest vineyards in France; documented well before Charlemagne, in 741.
In the 19th century the grape phylloxera, a pest that feeds on the vine roots resulting in deformed and secondary fungal infections cutting off nutrients and water to the vine wiped out the vineyards along with those throughout Europe and the vineyards were replaced by fields.
It was not until 1994 that Gérard Vermeere, concious of the potential of local produce, undertook replanting.
Today, Ida Nel, a woman who enjoys a challenge, continues the work.
There are six types of vines: Pinot Noir, César, Aligoté, Auxerrois, Chardonnay and Pinot Beurot. To compliment the range of white, rosé and red wines le Domaine offers two sparkling champagne type, fine wines of Flavigny and the Ratafia.
Le Domaine’s reception area is in one of the XIIIth century buildings of the old Abbey St Pierre de Flavigny.
You can taste the wines and other local products in a friendly environment, visit the fermenting room and discover the mysteries behind the making of wine. There are training courses on oenology, you can see art exhibitions, attend organised seminars, conferences and receptions in the vast room set aside for this purpose.
For more information contact le Domaine de Flavigny-Alésia. In winter le Domaine is open each day from 10am to 6pm, and in the summer from 10am to 7pm.