The first Hospices de Beaune auction was in 1851 and it has taken place annualy since on the third Sunday in November. 

The Domaine des Hospices de Beaune is a non-profit organisation which owns around 61 hectares (150 acres) of donated vineyard land, much of this classified Grand and Premier Cru. These interesting cuvees are popular amongst buyers around the world.

The Hotel Dieu, famous for its colourful tiled roof, was founded in 1443 during the reign of Duke Philip the Good. The majority of the people of Beaune were declared destitute. Nicolas Rolin, the Duke's Chancellor, and his wife Guigone de Salins, responded by deciding to build a hospital and refuge for the poor.