This month we’re heading to eastern France to explore one of the world’s most revered wine regions through a value-driven lens. Burgundy has earned its reputation for producing some of the greatest Chardonnay and Pinot Noir on earth, but it is also known for eye-watering prices, particularly with the recently imposed tariffs. Fortunately, exceptional values still exist for those willing to look beyond the famous villages and grand cru vineyards. This month’s lineup highlights overlooked appellations, historic grape varieties, and neighboring Beaujolais, where Gamay thrives on granite soils. From crisp Aligoté and mineral-driven Chardonnay to elegant Pinot Noir and vibrant Gamay, these wines deliver authentic Burgundian character without the collector-level price tag. Thanks for being a part of The Flock. 

Wine #1: Vincent & François Jouard Bourgogne Aligoté 2021
  • Varietal: 100% Aligoté
  • Region: Bourgogne Aligoté, Burgundy, France
  • Taste: Lemon zest, green apple, white flowers, wet stone
  • Elevage: Stainless steel fermentation and aging
  • Serve: Well chilled
  • Pairings: Oysters, goat cheese, shrimp cocktail, potato chips

Vincent & François Jouard farm in Chassagne-Montrachet, one of Burgundy’s most celebrated villages. While the family is best known for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, their Aligoté showcases Burgundy’s historic second white grape at its best. Bright, refreshing, and mineral-driven, it offers remarkable value and a glimpse into Burgundy’s everyday wine culture.

Wine #2: Damien Martin Saint-Véran Chardonnay 2023
  • Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
  • Region: Saint-Véran, Mâconnais, Burgundy, France
  • Taste: Pear, white peach, citrus, chalk
  • Elevage: Stainless steel fermentation with lees aging
  • Serve: Chilled
  • Pairings: Roast chicken, crab cakes, brie, grilled vegetables

Damien Martin comes from a family deeply rooted in Burgundy’s winemaking traditions. Saint-Véran sits in the southern Mâconnais, where limestone-rich soils produce expressive Chardonnay with freshness and balance. Often overshadowed by neighboring Pouilly-Fuissé, Saint-Véran remains one of Burgundy’s great value appellations.

Wine #3: Grosse Pierre Chiroubles 2024
  • Varietal: 100% Gamay
  • Region: Chiroubles, Beaujolais, France
  • Taste: Raspberry, cherry, violet, crushed stone
  • Elevage: Stainless steel aging to preserve fruit purity
  • Serve: Slightly chilled
  • Pairings: Charcuterie, grilled sausages, fried chicken, mushroom pizza

Domaine de la Grosse Pierre farms high-elevation vineyards in Chiroubles, the highest cru of Beaujolais. Granite soils and cooler temperatures create wines known for their floral aromatics and elegance. This is Gamay at its most vibrant and refreshing, delivering exceptional character and drinkability.

Wine #4: Michel Goubard Côte Chalonnaise Bourgogne Rouge 2023
  • Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
  • Region: Côte Chalonnaise, Burgundy, France
  • Taste: Red cherry, cranberry, baking spice, earth
  • Elevage: Aged in a combination of stainless steel and neutral oak
  • Serve: Cellar temperature
  • Pairings: Roast pork, salmon, mushroom risotto, Gruyère

The Goubard family has cultivated vineyards in the Côte Chalonnaise for generations. Located south of Burgundy’s famous Côte d’Or, the region consistently produces some of the area’s best values. Their Pinot Noir delivers classic Burgundian character with bright fruit, subtle earthiness, and remarkable approachability.

Wine #5: Lucien & Fanny Rocault Coteaux Bourguignons 2020
  • Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir 
  • Region: Coteaux Bourguignons, Burgundy, France
  • Taste: Black cherry, raspberry, spice, forest floor
  • Elevage: Aged in neutral oak barrels
  • Serve: Cellar temperature
  • Pairings: Burgers, roast chicken, lentils, Comté cheese

Lucien and Fanny Rocault represent a new generation of Burgundian growers focused on sustainable farming and expressive wines. The Coteaux Bourguignons appellation allows for greater flexibility than traditional Burgundy designations, often blending Pinot Noir and Gamay to create wines that are approachable, food-friendly, and packed with value.

Wine #6: Domaine Rapet Pernand-Vergelesses 2022
  • Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
  • Region: Pernand-Vergelesses, Côte de Beaune, Burgundy, France
  • Taste: Black cherry, red currant, rose petal, baking spice
  • Elevage: Approximately 12 months in French oak
  • Serve: Cellar temperature
  • Pairings: Duck breast, roast lamb, beef bourguignon, alpine cheeses

Domaine Rapet is one of the historic producers of Pernand-Vergelesses, a village nestled beside the famed hill of Corton. While neighboring appellations often command much higher prices, Pernand-Vergelesses remains a source of exceptional value. Rapet’s wines combine elegance, structure, and ageability while showcasing the refined side of Burgundian Pinot Noir.