The historic wine presses of the Dukes of Burgundy in Chenove host the annual Fete de la Pressee, a local autumn celebration that brings regional viticulture to life. Located just south of Dijon, this site features two massive wooden wine presses dating back to the fourteenth century. The event centers around the active demonstration of these ancient machines, drawing residents and visitors to witness traditional pressing methods that have remained unchanged for hundreds of years. It is an authentic gathering focused on the heritage of the Cote de Nuits region.

What You Can Do

Visitors can watch the historical wine presses in action as volunteers load them with freshly harvested Aligote grapes. You can taste the sweet, unfermented grape juice, known as bernache, directly as it flows from the press. The event allows you to explore the stone press house and speak with local winemakers who explain the mechanics of medieval viticulture. Wine tastings are organized throughout the weekend, featuring regional appellations and wines produced by independent local estates.

What They Offer

The celebration showcases local Burgundy wines with a strong focus on regional grape varieties such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Several small family estates set up stalls to present their current vintages, offering direct sales and informal tastings. The main attraction remains the historical demonstration of the wooden presses, which are among the largest and oldest working wine presses in Europe. The event also provides educational displays about the history of the Dukes of Burgundy and their influence on regional wine production.

Activities

Beyond the wine pressing, the weekend features a lively regional market and street performances. Visitors can browse stalls filled with local crafts, artisanal goods, and regional foodstuffs. Guided tours of the historic center of Chenove are available, highlighting the architectural heritage of the area. For those interested in exploring further, the surrounding hillsides offer walking trails through the vineyards of the Marsannay appellation, which is located just a short distance away.

Food to Eat

The food offerings highlight traditional Burgundian cuisine designed to pair with local wines. Food stalls serve classic dishes such as beef bourguignon, escargots, and local cheeses including Citeaux and Epoisses. Freshly baked bread and regional pastries are prepared on site. The focus is on simple, rustic preparations using ingredients sourced from nearby farms, allowing visitors to experience authentic regional culinary traditions in a casual outdoor setting.

Why Visit

This event offers a rare opportunity to experience living history in an intimate and uncommercialized setting. It provides direct access to local winemakers and a unique look at ancient wine making technology that is still operational today. The atmosphere is relaxed and community oriented, making it an excellent alternative to larger, highly commercialized wine festivals.

The celebration is exceptionally well organized, maintaining a genuine community feel that is often lost in larger events. While the crowds around the historic presses can become dense during peak demonstration hours, the overall experience remains highly accessible and informative. It is a rewarding visit for anyone seeking a deeper connection to the historical roots of Burgundy wine culture.