Beaune is considered the capital of Burgundian wines.
To the north, south and west of the municipality is the Côte de Beaune, where many of the most prestigious names of Burgundian wines can be found. It represents an area of 5,980 hectares, or slightly less than a quarter of the Burgundy vineyard. It has classified 20 common AOCs and 331 premier crus.
Many wine producers and wine merchants are based in Beaune. Between 1720 and 1750, commercial houses were established in Beaune, the first of which was Maison Champy. Since 1851, the Hospices de Beaune have organized an annual auction of their productions, nowadays with an international dimension.
Beaune has its own Controlled Designation of Origin (AOC). This appellation covers an area of 411.7 hectares with a large majority of red wines: 362.74 hectares of red wine planted with pinot noir and 48.96 hectares of white wine with chardonnay.
In addition to the AOC Beaune, other wines may also be produced, such as: Côte de Beaune, Burgundy aligote, Burgundy, crémant de Bourgogne, Burgundy mousseux, Burgundy Passe-tout-grains and Coteaux Bourguignons.