Burgundy wines

Burgundy is considered to be the best terroir in the world for the production of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. That's why some of its wines are among the most famous and expensive on the market. We say some, because the region is also home to tasty wines sold at affordable prices. To better understand what makes the wines of this region so fascinating, this guide looks at the quality of Burgundy's terroir, the classification of its vineyards, its many appellations and its main producers

A look back at the history of Burgundy's terroir

Located around two hours south-east of Paris, the Burgundy wine region accounts for just 3% of French wine production. It may be small in area, but its influence on the world of wine is enormous. This basic guide would be incomplete without an explanation of the formation of the region's limestone and marl soils, which make it so complex. Millions of years ago, Burgundy was part of a vast tropical sea. Time then transformed the seabed to make way for the soils that give Burgundy wines their minerality and aromatic complexity, unique qualities that make them so special. The history of wine in this region goes back to the dawn of time, to around fifty years BC. Over the centuries and generations, Celts, Romans, Benedictine monks and the Dukes of Burgundy have developed the terroir and flavours of Burgundy wines. Two main grape varieties are grown in Burgundy: Pinot Noir for white wine and Chardonnay for red wine. The quality of the terroir is so important in the creation of Burgundy wines that the vineyards are classified into 4 levels according to the character of their plot for viticulture. One of these classifications is indicated on the bottle label With these classifications, we mustn't forget that even a regional wine deserves to be appreciated because it is produced in one of the world's finest wine-growing regions. That's why we sell a wide range of wines, from the great Burgundies to the most expensive and affordable. They're all great buys, perfect for special occasions or a bottle to drink every day

The many appellations of Burgundy wines

The Burgundy wine regions are divided into five main areas: Chablis, Côte des Nuits, Côte de Beaune, Côte Chalonnaise, Mâconnais, not forgetting Beaujolais and Châtilonnais. There are currently 44 local appellations in Burgundy. Each wine bears the name of the village in which it is produced. The appellations are classified according to their boundaries, yield, minimum natural harvest and grape variety. Here is a non-exhaustive list of Burgundy wine appellations and their specific characteristics