North of the famed vineyards of Vosne-Romanée and just above the Clos de Vougeot vineyard in Burgundy’s famed Côte de Nuits lies Échezeaux. Échezeaux is a complex grand cru vineyard, with 100 acres of land composed of 11 different lieux-dits, with each broken down even further to create a network of diverse plots. Some sections are ideal for growing full-bodied, spice-kissed Burgundy wines; others perform less so. But all the acreage is dedicated to growing Pinot Noir.

Around 80 local families own these interesting plots: the best sections on the upper mid-slope – Échezeaux de Dessus, Les Poulailleres and EnOrveaux – are blessed with stony soil and exceptional drainage, while lower sections feature clay more abundantly and offer inferior drainage. But the most notable is the Grands-Échezeaux section, which, due to its superior standing has been granted it own grand cru appellation.

Much like Charmes-Chambertin, Échezeaux has been subjected to criticism for its inconsistent performance, and as such, it’s grand cru status has been called into question. Partly to blame for the unevenness is the layout and division across the property, inhibiting performance continuity. But despite the controversies, Échezeaux is home to many noted producers, including Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, one of the greatest in the region, and Emmanuel Rouget. Top Producers: Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Emmanuel Rouget, Roche Bellene, Louis Jadot