To commemorate its centenary as an AOC (appellation d’origine contrôlée), the village of Mercurey in Côte Chalonnaise organized a series of events throughout 2023, celebrating its notable evolution and significance in the Burgundy wine region.
On May 30, 1923, the court ruling formalizing Mercurey as an AOC was established, following a legal challenge by local winemaker Edouard de Suremain. He aimed to safeguard the Mercurey name from neighboring wine producers, reflecting a vital step in the growing understanding of appellation control in France. The years leading up to this ruling were harsh, marred by vineyard devastation from phylloxera, the impacts of World War I, and economic turmoil. Slow recovery set the stage for Mercurey to emerge stronger in recent decades, although challenges such as climate change loom.
The celebratory events kicked off with a ceremony marking the centennial anniversary. This was followed by a Grande Fête in July 2023, showcasing traditional artisan skills alongside modern advancements in winemaking technology. The highlight of the celebrations culminated in March 2024 with a grand dinner, featuring Michelin-starred chefs who prepared exquisite dishes complemented by local Mercurey wines.
The importance of Mercurey’s diverse terroir is underscored by its unique topography, which is characterized by undulating hills and varied soil types, primarily devoted to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. During the commemorative weekend, attendees were introduced to various local producers and wines, demonstrating both the region’s historical significance and its current quality.
Tasting events displayed the exceptional wines of renowned producers like Château de Chamirey, Domaine Michel Juillot, and Domaine Faiveley, illustrating the quality and range of offerings within Mercurey. As the village looks forward, its commitment to tradition and innovation promises to continue the legacy of this storied wine-producing region.
For more on the wines of Mercurey, visit World Of Fine Wine.