Nestled between Dijon and Gevrey-Chambertin, the Fixin appellation (pronounced "Fissin") still remains in the shadow of its famous neighbors. And yet... this village in the north of the Côte de Nuits, at the beginning of the Burgundy vineyard, has all the makings of a great one. Refined and elegant red wines, a fantastic terroir, talented winemakers, and prices that are (still) reasonable for the region.
So, why not take a closer look ? Let’s embark together on a journey through vineyards, history, and fine wines.
Summary
History of the Fixin appellation
Although direct archaeological evidence remains limited, the history of wine in Fixin is part of a long Burgundian tradition. Located in the heart of the Côte de Nuits, a terroir renowned for its ancient vineyards, the winegrowing history of Fixin probably began as early as the Gallo-Roman period. While no major excavation has yet revealed any particular remains related to viticulture (such as amphorae or wine presses) in the village itself, nearby discoveries, notably in Gevrey-Chambertin, do indeed attest to an organized cultivation of the vine since Antiquity. The presence of humans for several millennia, as well as the region’s rich winegrowing heritage, therefore suggest that vines were most likely cultivated very early in Fixin and its surroundings.
In the Middle Ages, after the fall of the Roman Empire, it was the monks, notably those from the Abbey of Cîteaux, who took matters into their own hands.They then identified the best plots throughout Burgundy, established the first enclosures, and gradually structured the vineyard. The proximity of Dijon, then the political and cultural center of the Dukes of Burgundy, also contributed to the reputation of the region's wines, which were often served at grand ducal banquets. Of course, at that time, the wines of "Fixin" were not yet specifically mentioned. They were probably marketed under more generic names or associated with local properties and estates.
In the 19th century, Fixin began a new phase in its winegrowing history. Vine cultivation became more modern, winemaking techniques were perfected, and the boundaries of the appellation were gradually defined.It was, however, in the following century, in 1936, that Fixin officially obtained its status as an Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC), a label guaranteeing both the geographical origin and the quality of the wines produced. Today, this recognition is also included within the European framework under the designation of Protected Designation of Origin (PDO).
Since then, and although still in the shadow of more publicized prestigious neighbors such as Gevrey-Chambertin or Chambolle-Musigny, Fixin maintains a strong identity, especially locally, in Burgundy. From an image perspective, Fixin is indeed recognized as a serious and authentic terroir within the Côte de Nuits, and is appreciated by enthusiasts seeking wines that are both classic and accessible, offering an excellent quality-price ratio.
To date, the appellation covers around 100 hectares (95 of Pinot Noir and 5 of Chardonnay) and has 6 Premier Cru classified climates, the most well-known being "Clos Napoléon", "Les Hervelets", as well as "Les Arvelets".
Map of the Fixin appellation
Soils and climate of the Fixin appellation
The subsoil of the Fixin terroirs is mainly limestone, mixed with marl and sandstone, offering a mosaic of varied terroirs. This geological diversity here allows Pinot Noir, the dominant grape variety, to fully express itself, with wines that are often structured and tannic, sometimes firmer than those from certain neighboring appellations.
The clay-limestone soils bring finesse and minerality, while the stonier areas give the wines significant tension and aging potential.
The climate is continental : harsh winters and hot summers. These conditions allow for optimal grape ripening, ensuring concentration and intensity in the wine, especially in reds.
In Fixin, the vineyard plots show a certain diversity of orientations, but most often have favorable south and southeast exposures. These orientations allow for good sun exposure, which is essential in Burgundy to ensure optimal ripening of Pinot Noir. That said, there are also plots with more varied exposures, including to the east and sometimes to the west, which can bring nuances to the wine profiles.
The wines of the Fixin AOC
When Fixin is mentioned, one naturally thinks of red wines. And this is no coincidence: they represent about 95% of the production of the appellation! Made exclusively from Pinot Noir, these wines are particularly renowned for their refined power and structure. Often more full-bodied and indulgents than those from certain neighboring AOCs (such as Marsannay), they usually offer a beautiful texture on the palate, lovely tannins, and a distinctive character.A style that will appeal to lovers of French red wines seeking authenticity!
With a few years of aging, Fixin reds also develop a complex aromatic palette: well-ripened black fruits, mild spices, notes of leather, undergrowth, and sometimes even a typical animal touch. This is the true charm of this underrated AOC, which certainly does not have to blush in comparison to some of its renowned neighbors such as Gevrey-Chambertin or Nuits-Saint-Georges. Of course, the wines here are often simpler but have a truly distinctive character.
And what about the white wines ?! Made from the Chardonnay grape variety, these represent a very small share of the AOC’s production. However, Fixin whites also deserve your full attention. Fresh, floral, indulgents yet taut, these wines combine minerality and elegance.
As you will have understood, whether red or white, Fixin wines deserve to be discovered for their typicity and excellent value for money. Less publicized than some other appellations of the Côte de Nuits, such as Gevrey-Chambertin, Nuits-Saint-Georges, Pommard or Chambolle-Musigny, Fixin nevertheless offers accessible treasures that are representative of the Burgundian identity.
The Pinot Noir grape variety: finesse and character of the great red wines of Fixin and Burgundy
Fixin and its 6 Premier Cru vineyards
On the prestigious Route des Grands Crus of Burgundy, a stop in Fixin (and Brochon, the other village of the appellation) is a must. Of the 100 hectares of the appellation, about 18 hectares are classified as “Premier Cru”. There are six: Aux Cheusots, Clos Napoléon, Clos de la Perrière, Clos du Chapitre, Les Meix Bas, and Arvelets. Here is a brief description of each.
Le Clos Napoléon is a prestigious climat offering rich, powerful, and intense wines. Located on limestone soil, this terroir allows Pinot Noir to fully express itself, with aromas of ripe black fruits, licorice, chocolate, and sometimes truffle. This climat produces wines that combine power and elegance, with well-integrated tannins and beautiful freshness. The aging potential of these cuvées is impressive.
Le Clos de la Perrière is, for its part, one of the most famous Premier Crus of the Fixin appellation. This terroir, ideally facing south-southeast, produces particularly elegant, balanced, and highly refined wines. With present but silky tannins, this cru has excellent aging potential.The wines of Clos de la Perrière improve with time, offering beautiful aromatic complexity and great persistence on the palate.
Le Clos du Chapitre is another safe bet. Benefiting from an ideal exposure, this climat produces very structured wines, with aromas of black fruits, plum, and sometimes tobacco. The tannins are firm but well integrated, and the palate is deep with a beautiful length. Clos du Chapitre is a terroir particularly suited to aging, and the wines from this cru often become more complex over time.
The terroir of Les Meix Bas is located in the lower part of the commune of Fixin and produces lighter and more approachable wines than the other Premier Crus of the appellation. The wines are indeed characterized by a lovely freshness and aromas of fresh red fruits. The tannins are fine, and the structure is more supple, which makes them pleasant to drink young, although the wines can also age and develop additional complexity over time.
Then comes the climate of the Arvelets. Located in the upper part of the commune of Fixin, it benefits from a south and southeast exposure allowing for excellent ripening of the Pinot Noir. The wines from Arvelets are powerful, evoking aromas of black fruits, licorice, and sometimes spicy notes. The tannins are present but well integrated, offering a solid structure that allows for good aging potential.
Finally, the climate of the Hervelets is located on more clay-limestone soils, giving wines with a beautiful finesse and a balanced structure. The aromas of fresh red fruits and violet are typical of this cru, and the wines display a lovely minerality. Although often lighter than some other wines from the other Fixin Premier Crus, the wines from Hervelets also show good aging potential.
All these Fixin Premier Crus, with their distinct characteristics, offer a range of wines from the most accessible and fruity to the most powerful and complex.
What to eat with a wine from the AOC Fixin?
You have a fine bottle of Fixin in your cellar and are wondering what to enjoy it with? Rest assured, we have some ideas indulgentes to best pair these delicious wines from the Côte de Nuits.
With Fixin red wines
Red meats : A great Burgundy classic such as slow-cooked beef in wine or a juicy grilled ribeye will pair beautifully with a Fixin red. Duck breast, with its richness and texture, will also go very well with Fixin Pinot Noirs.
Slow-cooked dishes : The red wines of Fixin, often powerful and full-bodied, also pair perfectly with dishes such as beef stew, rabbit civet, or braised pork cheek. Their tannic structure balances very well with this type of cuisine.
Aged cheeses : Try pairing an old Fixin (5-10 years old) with an Époisses or a Livarot. These French cheeses have great character, and the combination is often explosive!
From a serving temperature perspective, we also recommend serving the reds from this appellation between 14 and 16°C in order to preserve their fruitiness and structure.
Époisses and "old" Fixin red: rebellious pairing, guaranteed unexpected pleasure
With Fixin white wines
Fish : A sea bass fillet, a meunière-style trout or steamed cod will reveal the freshness and indulgentise of Fixin white wines.
Poultry in sauce: A creamy chicken, a light blanquette or even turkey with morels will be enhanced by the finesse and roundness of the Burgundy whites from this AOC.
Fresh cheeses : The white wines of Fixin, with their liveliness, pair very well with goat or sheep cheeses, or even a young Comté.
From a serving temperature perspective, we also recommend serving the white wines of the appellation between 11 and 13°C in order to preserve their freshness, while revealing their indulgentise.
The best wines of the Fixin appellation
The Fixin appellation is home to several renowned estates that have managed to showcase the terroir of this still too little-known appellation. Among the most emblematic are notably Domaine Bart and also René Bouvier.
The Domaine Huguenot is another key player in Fixin. This family estate, now run by Philippe Huguenot, is also renowned for its Marsannay and high-quality Fixin. The cuvées are indeed praised in specialized guides for their finesse and depth, combining fruitiness and minerality with a beautiful tannic structure that gives them good aging potential.
Many other vineyards could also be highlighted, such as Domaine Colotte, Domaine Pierre Gelin and its great "Clos Napoléon", Michel Noëllat, or Jean Fournier.They are all the standard-bearers of this beautiful appellation that is Fixin !
So, tempted by a little trip to Fixin? Why not take a look at our selection of wines on La Cave Éclairée ? You will find hand-picked bottles from trusted estates at very fair prices. Any questions? We are here for you!
And you, have you ever tasted a Fixin? Red or white? Let us know in the comments!
