Burgundy Wine
Burgundy wine is a renowned type of wine produced in the region of Burgundy in eastern France. Known for its intricate and diverse wine profiles, Burgundy is primarily famous for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines, though other varietals like Gamay and Aligoté are also produced.
History
- The history of winemaking in Burgundy dates back to Roman times when the region was part of the Roman Empire. Vineyards were established, and the area's potential for viticulture was quickly recognized.
- During the Middle Ages, the Cistercian monks played a pivotal role in the development of Burgundy wine. They meticulously cataloged their vineyards, laying the groundwork for the complex terroir-based classification system that Burgundy still uses today.
- The French Revolution saw many church properties, including vineyards, being seized and sold off, leading to the fragmentation of land ownership which characterizes Burgundy today.
- In the 20th century, phylloxera devastated many of the world's vineyards, but Burgundy's recovery was notable, with new plantings and the establishment of Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) regulations in 1936, which helped to define and protect the region's wine styles and production methods.
Geography and Climate
The Burgundy wine region spans from the city of Dijon to Mâcon, and it's divided into several key areas:
Wine Classification
Burgundy's classification system is complex:
- Grand Cru - The highest tier, representing the finest vineyards.
- Premier Cru - Just below Grand Cru in quality, but still highly respected.
- Village or Communal Wines - Named after the village or commune where the grapes are grown.
- Bourgogne AOC - A regional appellation covering the entire Burgundy region.
Production Techniques
The winemaking in Burgundy focuses on expressing the unique characteristics of each plot of land:
- Hand harvesting is common to ensure the quality of the grapes.
- Many producers practice minimal intervention in the winemaking process, allowing the terroir to shine through.
- Oak aging is utilized, but often in a subtle manner compared to other regions, to enhance rather than dominate the wine's profile.
Cultural Impact
Burgundy wine has had a profound cultural impact:
- It has influenced wine styles and viticultural practices worldwide.
- Its terroir-based approach to winemaking has set a standard for wine regions globally.
- Burgundy has been a focal point for wine collectors, with bottles from top vineyards fetching high prices at auctions.
References
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