Burgundy Wines

Burgundy is one of the most prestigious wine regions in France and the world. This vineyard produces some of the world’s most renowned red and white wines. The land of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Burgundy offers grands crus and more accessible bottles that enhance festive meals. Discover the appellations of this vineyard, its climate, key grape varieties, and the best food and wine pairings in our guide.

The History of Burgundy Wines

The Burgundy vineyard stretches across four departments, from Auxerre to the outskirts of Lyon, with four sub-regions: Côte de Nuits, Côte de Beaune, Côte Chalonnaise, and Mâconnais. During the Roman Empire, forests were cleared and cultivated to produce grapes and wine. Monks continued this work, perfecting vinification methods throughout the Middle Ages. Over centuries, Burgundy precisely categorized its terroirs and microclimates, creating a multitude of appellations.

The Burgundy vineyard produces mainly white wines, representing 70% of regional plantings with only one grape, Chardonnay. Red wines are exclusively made from Pinot Noir, expressing its full potential in Burgundy. Although Burgundy wines open up sooner than those from Bordeaux, they can age gracefully for a decade. Burgundy is France’s smallest wine region, covering less than 3% of the national surface, yet it boasts over a hundred protected designations and diverse climates. Today, the vines cover nearly 30,000 hectares, with almost 25,000 classified as AOP.

The Terroir and Climate of Burgundy

From its inception, the Burgundy vineyard aimed to categorize and classify its climates and microclimates. Recently, Burgundy’s vineyard climates were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Since the Middle Ages, thanks to the diligent work of monks, climates were mapped out. These are small plots within appellations that differ based on orientation, soil geology, sun exposure, or microclimate. There are nearly 1463 climates across Burgundy, each with unique characteristics.

The Different Appellations of Burgundy Wines

Regional Appellations of Burgundy

In Burgundy, there are six wine-growing regions divided into different AOCs:

• AOC Bourgogne,
• AOC Bourgogne Aligoté,
• AOC Bourgogne Mousseux,
• AOP Côteaux Bourguignons,
• AOC Bourgogne Passe-Tout-Grains,
• AOP Crémant de Bourgogne.

Village Appellations of Burgundy

Village appellations designate wines linked to their village of origin and represent a third of regional production. Examples include AOCs like Gevrey-Chambertin, Pommard, Nuit-Saint-Georges, Meursault, Chablis, and Pouilly-Fuissé.

Premier Crus and Grands Crus of Burgundy

Premier Crus represent less than 10% of Burgundy wine production. They are identified with a village AOC or AOP name, followed by a parcel or climate name like Les Pucelles or Sous la Roche.

Finally, Grands Crus represent rarity, making up about 1% of Burgundy vineyards. These small vineyard plots within specific climates are world-renowned, like Romanée-Conti or La Tâche.

The Main Grape Varieties of Burgundy Wines

Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is the red grape of Burgundy’s great wines, covering about 40% of the region’s vineyards. This grape produces wines with a dark ruby color and notes of cherry and red fruits. The most prestigious cuvées develop aromas of cherry, blackcurrant, and floral hints of violet and peony. On the palate, Pinot Noir reveals a fruity, elegant wine with firm but fine tannins and spicy flavors.

Gamay

A rare red variety in the region, Gamay represents less than 3% of the vineyard. It offers red fruit aromas like cherry or currant. On the palate, Gamay wines are pleasant and fresh.

Chardonnay

Chardonnay is the emblematic grape of Burgundy’s white wines, representing 51% of plantings. It produces pale wines with green highlights when young. The nose reveals notes of citrus, apple, and acacia flowers. On the palate, Chardonnay provides wines with marked acidity and depth.

Aligoté

Mainly used for Bourgogne Aligoté or Crémant de Bourgogne, Aligoté produces white wines with citrus, green fruit, and floral notes. Effervescent, it balances acidity and freshness.

Food and Wine Pairings: The Best Matches with Burgundy Wines

A Burgundy Wine with an Appetizer

Burgundy wines are perfect for appetizers. White wines like Chablis complement shellfish platters. For a scallop starter, opt for Saint-Véran.

A Burgundy Wine with a Main Course

White Burgundy wines pair well with grilled or sauced fish. Snails go well with white Mâconnais wines. Beef bourguignon pairs with a red Burgundy like AOP Hautes-Côtes de Beaune.

A Burgundy Wine with a Dessert

For dessert, Crémant de Bourgogne pairs well with sweet dishes. A dry white Burgundy, like Mâcon, goes well with a cheese platter.

Burgundy is an iconic French wine region with prestigious wines and estates. Avenue des vins offers a selection of the best Burgundy wines. Carefully chosen, our wines enhance any meal and moment shared with family. Discover our exclusive Burgundy selection with direct shipping from the vineyards.