Burgundy

The amazing vineyards of Burgundy are extremely varied Homogenous thanks to the single varieties of grape planted (Pinot Noir for the reds and Chardonnay for the whites), yet distinctive thanks to the diversity of the soil of the region, and to the appellation they produce: almost a hundred over 28,000 hectares.

More than anywhere else the notion of terroir here acquires its full meaning , as the slightest difference in exposure, altitude, or in soil type can result in a potentially very different wine.

The prices Burgundy wines reach, such as Cote de Nuits, Cote de Beaune, being in keeping with their fame, it is no surprise that many New World countries have tried to acclimatize the two burgundy varieties to their own conditions, with it should be said, a measure of success as regards to Chardonnay.

Luckily there are still a few burgundy wines to be found at reasonable prices. To the north of Dijon, the Chablis area (more than 5,000 hectares) have had a rock solid reputation abroad for decades. To the south of Chagny lies the Cote Chalonnaise, mainly devoted to reds such as Mercurey, followed by the Maconnais, noted for its grand white Pouilly Fuisse. Like all wines, most Burgundies are drinkable after a couple of years, whereas the first growth call for from three to five years of bottle aging.