Burgundy (Bourgogne), Eastern France

For true wine lovers, Burgundy is an irreplaceable sacred land. Burgundy is one of France's most famous red wine regions, renowned for its exceptional wine quality and long winemaking history. The wines from this region are primarily based on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, showcasing unique terroir and flavors. 

Burgundy

• Location: Eastern France, includes sub-regions like Chablis and Côte d'Or.

• Area: The total area of the Burgundy wine region is about 29,500 hectares (approximately 73,000 acres), of which about 25,000 hectares are certified AOC vineyards, with over 100 appellations.

• Main grape varieties: Pinot Noir (red); Chardonnay (white).

• Famous wines: Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Chablis Grand Cru, etc.

Geographical Position

Burgundy is located about 300 kilometers southeast of Paris, covering part of central to eastern France. Its boundaries extend north to Champagne and south to Beaujolais. Although its overall area is smaller than Bordeaux, its quality and brand value are remarkable.

On the map, Burgundy can be divided into five main areas, including Chablis, Côte de Nuits, and Côte de Beaune (collectively known as Côte-d'Or), Côte Chalonnaise, Mâconnais, and Beaujolais. Côte d’Or is praised as the soul of Burgundy, where many top-quality wines in the world are produced on this narrow land. 

*Burgundy wine region, source: Vineyards

Environmental Characteristics

The climate in Burgundy is continental, cooler in the north and warmer in the south. This climatic variation promotes the growth of different grape varieties:

• Climate: It has a semi-continental climate; winters are slightly cold, summers are mild, and good rainfall distribution allows grapes to enjoy natural nourishment.

• Soil: The soil here is particularly diverse, primarily consisting of limestone, clay, and sandy soils. The limestone slopes of Côte d’Or are considered crucial for producing refined Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Different climate and soil conditions together form what is known as "terroir," which is the essence of Burgundy wines.

• Production Data: In 2023, the total production is approximately 1.9 million liters (equivalent to 253 million bottles), with white wine production at 1.12 million liters, red wine at 520,000 liters, and Cremant de Bourgogne sparkling wine reaching 250,000 liters. The total vineyard area in Burgundy is about 29,500 hectares, of which around 25,000 hectares are certified AOC vineyards. The region has 33 Grand Cru vineyards, producing some of the highest quality wines in the world, showcasing Burgundy’s unique terroir and winemaking traditions.
  
  

Main Grape Varieties:

When it comes to Burgundy, we must mention two superstar varieties: Pinot Noir and Chardonnay:

1.   Pinot Noir

• Description: This is the most important red grape variety in Burgundy, known for its elegance, delicacy, and complex flavors. Pinot Noir typically exhibits red fruit, floral aromas, and earthy notes.

• Tasting Characteristics: Notes of cherry, raspberry, and earth; light to medium-bodied, high acidity, low tannins, often with subtle floral and spice notes, smooth and pleasing texture.

2.   Chardonnay

• Description: If Pinot Noir is the soul of Burgundy, then Chardonnay is its heart. The Burgundy white wine region, especially known for Chablis, showcases Chardonnays with mineral flavors and refreshing acidity, while white wines from the southern Côte d’Or are rich and complex. 

• Tasting Characteristics: Aromas of apple, pear, citrus, and tropical fruits; oak-aged versions often show notes of vanilla, cream, and caramel.

3. Aligoté

• Description: Aligoté is a versatile white grape variety, reportedly a cross between Pinot Noir and Gouais Blanc, known for its fresh and lively wines, typically with bright acidity. While often overshadowed by Chardonnay, it plays an important role in the classic Kir cocktail.

• Tasting Characteristics: Aromas of apple, lemon, and lime, with subtle notes of white flowers and almonds, overall light body with a mineral touch.

4.  Gamay

• Description: Gamay is an ancient red grape variety from Burgundy, primarily grown in the Burgundy and Beaujolais regions, known for producing light to medium-bodied wines. It is famous for its fruity aromas, typically lighter and less complex than Pinot Noir. 

• Tasting Characteristics: Bright red fruit aromas (such as cherry, raspberry, and strawberry), accompanied by floral notes like violet, sometimes with subtle earthy undertones, overall high acidity and low tannins.