La Paulée de la Côte Chalonnaise: A Festive and Friendly Tradition
- Jean cesar de leusse
- Jul 7
- 2 min read
In the heart of Burgundy, the Côte Chalonnaise celebrates one of its most emblematic traditions each year: the Paulée de la Côte Chalonnaise. This festival, deeply rooted in the winegrowing heritage of the region, marks the end of the grape harvest and honors the work of the winemakers.
The term “Paulée” comes from the local dialect word paule, meaning “shovel,” a reference to the final scoop of grapes poured into the press—symbolizing the end of the harvest. Originally, the Paulée was a meal offered by vineyard owners to thank their harvest workers for their efforts. Over time, this tradition evolved into a lively public celebration bringing together vintners, wine fraternities, and wine lovers.
Each autumn, Chalon-sur-Saône becomes the stage for this joyful event. For several days, the town comes alive with tastings, parades, concerts, and other festivities. The streets are transformed into open-air cellars, giving visitors a chance to discover wines from local appellations such as Montagny, Mercurey, Givry, Rully, and Bouzeron.
The Paulée is also a time to showcase the cultural heritage of the region. Photographic exhibitions pay tribute to Nicéphore Niépce, the inventor of photography and native of Chalon-sur-Saône. Wine fraternities, dressed in traditional robes, parade through the streets, preserving age-old customs and rituals.
This celebration perfectly captures the spirit of the Côte Chalonnaise—a region where wine is more than a drink; it’s a way of life, a history, and a shared passion.
At HK Butler, we are proud to feature a refined selection of wines from the Côte Chalonnaise, including Givry, Montagny, and Rully. Each bottle in our collection reflects the character and charm of this vibrant region, shaped by centuries of tradition and festive community spirit. Whether you're toasting the end of harvest or simply savoring a fine Burgundy, our offerings bring the joy of the Paulée directly to your glass.
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