The world-famous Christian hospice in the town of Beaune in the Côte d'Or department or wine-growing area of Burgundy is also aptly named "Hôtel Dieu" (Hotel of God). It was founded by Nicolas Rolin (1376-1462), chancellor to Burgundy's Duke Philip the Good (1396-1467) and his wife Guigone de Salins (1403-1470) in 1443 for charitable purposes. Since then, the income from the associated vineyards and arable land has been used for the poor, as well as for the care of the elderly and the sick. The vineyards and arable land increased steadily through donations and inheritances in the Côte de Beaune and Côte de Nuits sub-areas. After half a millennium, the estate now comprises 62 hectares of vineyards spread over around 40 plots, all of which have Grand Cru or Premier Cru status.
![]()
There is a vast number of sources on the web where one can acquire knowledge about wine. But none has the scope, timeliness and accuracy of the information in the encyclopaedia at wein.plus. I use it regularly and rely on it.
Sigi Hiss
freier Autor und Weinberater (Fine, Vinum u.a.), Bad Krozingen