Burgundy wine also known as Bourgogne, is one of France’s most prestigious wines. It is renowned for its elegant Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines. Unlike most other wine-producing areas, Burgundy’s magic lies in its terroir…. but what is a terroir? It is a unique combination of soil, climate, and tradition that shapes each bottle’s character
What Makes Burgundy and Its Wine so Special?
The region is divided into five main areas or zones. These localities are Chablis, Côte de Nuits, Côte de Beaune, Côte Chalonnaise, and Mâconnais. Each offers distinct expressions of wine. These expressions stem from the concept of terroir previously explained. Hence aromas range from the crisp Chardonnays of Chablis to the velvety Pinot Noirs of Côte de Nuits.
The vineyards are in turn classified into Grand Cru, Premier Cru, Village, and Regional wines, with Grand Cru wines representing the pinnacle of quality, aroma and taste to experienced wine lovers. Hence, the more you move away from the top ranking and go towards the Village and then the Regional wines many factors change. It is reflected in the price and in the quality. However, you can still get some of the best wines of the region regardless of the exact ranking in Burgundy, as these wines have no bad quality ones and all tend to be on the finer end of the spectrum.
Flavors & Food Pairings
Burgundy wines are known for their finesse and complexity. A red Burgundy derived from a Pinot Noir grape variety delivers notes of cherry, earth, and spice, pairing beautifully with roasted meats, wild boar, gamy dishes and mushroom-based dishes.
While on the other hand, a white Burgundy derived from a Chardonnay grape variety is rich and mineral-driven. This makes it a perfect match for seafood, creamy cheeses, and poultry. However, the sky is the limit with Chardonnays and food pairings are rather personal preferences.
Why Burgundy?
Burgundy wines are a reflection of history and craftsmanship. These wines offer a true taste of place in every sip. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or simply a curious beginner, exploring Burgundy is a journey into the heart of fine winemaking.
Cheers to discovering the elegance of Burgundy! 🍷✨
