Christmas is synonymous with indulgence, and the Côte-d’Or is brimming with culinary gems to make your festive season truly special. In a special programme broadcast on 23 December 2025 on RCF, Béatrice Bourély welcomed three iconic Burgundy businesses: Mulot et Petitjean (gingerbread), Briottet (blackcurrant liqueur) and Domaine Rion (Burgundy truffles). These family-run businesses, often led by women and bearing the EPV label, embody Burgundian artisanal excellence. An in-depth look and recipe ideas for a 100% Côte-d’Or Christmas dinner !
Blackcurrant, Truffles, Gingerbread: star products for a gourmet festive season
The Côte-d’Or is adorned with iconic festive flavours, thanks to three exceptional products : Dijon gingerbread, Dijon crème de cassis and Burgundy truffles. Each embodies an artisanal tradition and lends itself to festive recipes, from aperitifs to desserts.
Mulot and Petitjean’s gingerbread: the Christmas essential
Since 1796, Mulot and Petitjean have been preserving the secret recipe for Dijon gingerbread, a subtle blend of honey, spices and flour. This product, certified as an Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant (EPV), is much more than just a biscuit: it is a symbol of Burgundian gastronomy.
“Gingerbread is the soul of Dijon. At Christmas, it brings a warm and comforting touch to the table.” — Marie Petitjean, 10th generation of the family.
Briottet’s crème de cassis: the fruity sparkle of the festive season
Maison Briottet, founded in 1836, is famous for its Dijon crème de cassis. It is THE company’s signature product. This liqueur, made from blackcurrants from the Côte d’Or, pairs perfectly with festive dishes, from aperitifs to desserts.
“As you can see, we put crème de cassis in everything!” — Claire Briottet-Garcin, director of the company.
The Burgundy truffle from Domaine Rion: the ‘black gold’ of gourmets
Domaine Rion, a winegrower in Vosne-Romanée since 1896, harbours another treasure: the Burgundy truffle, harvested with the help of trained dogs. This rare and fragrant ‘black diamond’ elevates festive dishes to new heights.
“The truffle is the magic of Christmas: a captivating aroma that transforms a simple meal into an exceptional moment.” — Armelle Rion, estate manager.
A shared commitment: tradition, family and excellence in the Côte d’Or
These three houses share far more than just a region: a family history stretching back centuries, a deep-rooted attachment to their terroir and a constant pursuit of excellence.
Family-run businesses spanning several generations
- Mulot et Petitjean: 10 generations of passion since 1796, now run by Marie Petitjean and her mother Catherine.
- Briottet: 6 generations since 1836, with Claire and Vincent Briottet at the helm.
- Domaine Rion: 5 generations since 1896, where Armelle and Bernard Rion work alongside their three daughters.
“Passing on our heritage is our raison d’être. Each generation adds its own touch, but respect for ancestral know-how remains our guiding principle.” — Claire Briottet-Garcin.
The EPV label: recognition from the State
Two of these companies, Mulot and Briottet, are proud to hold the Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant (EPV) label, a mark of quality and authenticity.
Created in 2005, EPV is a state-awarded label established to recognise French craft and industrial enterprises possessing rare and exceptional expertise. It is valid for a period of five years and awarded by regional prefects.
To qualify, companies must meet criteria relating to economic heritage, mastery of traditional or highly technical skills, and a long-standing geographical presence or high profile.
Women at the forefront of innovation
In 2025, when only 22% of business leaders are women, these three estates share the common feature of being led by women. Mulot et Petitjean, Briottet and Domaine Rion are businesses led or co-led by women. These businesses combine tradition and modernity.
“Being a woman in this industry means upholding both the heritage and the boldness to drive change.” — Armelle Rion.
Christmas recipe ideas featuring gingerbread, crème de cassis and truffles
On the RCF programme, Elise Jager from Mulot et Petitjean, Claire Briottet-Garcin and Armelle Rion shared their best Christmas recipes. From starters to dessert, gingerbread, crème de cassis and truffles will delight you this Christmas:
For authentic and delicious festive celebrations, choose gourmet products from Côte-d’Or ! Do visit the artisans’ websites, discover their shops or take part in their workshops. And you, what is your favourite Christmas treat?
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