The history of Meursault is inseparable from that of Burgundy's wine industry. It all began nearly 2,000 years ago. In the 1st century, the Romans planted the first vines on its sun-drenched hillsides. Emperor Domitian had part of the vineyard uprooted to protect Italian production, but his decree was overturned two centuries later by Emperor Probus. Thus, the vine naturally reclaimed its rights.
From the 6th century onwards, the rise of Christianity completely changed the situation. Wine became indispensable for religious rites and monastic orders established themselves throughout Burgundy. In Meursault, it was mainly the Cistercian monks of Cîteaux Abbey who had a lasting influence on the wine-growing landscape.
From the 13th century onwards, the village of Meursault clearly gained in notoriety. Its wines made their way to Paris and found their way onto tables in northern countries. In the 19th century, this vineyard mainly produced red wine, with white wines remaining very rare. Towards the end of the century, mildew and phylloxera ravaged the vineyard, forcing a complete rethink. Chardonnay became the dominant variety during replanting, profoundly transforming the appellation.
The 20th century marked the rise of Meursault, particularly with its official recognition as an Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée in 1937. Quality improved and styles became more refined, allowing Meursault to gradually become a global benchmark for white Burgundy fine wines.
