Burgundy - Wine Regions
Côte de Nuits
The Côte de Nuits is located in the northern part of Burgundy’s Côte d'Or and is renowned for producing some of the world’s most prestigious Pinot Noir wines. Stretching from Marsannay to Nuits-Saint-Georges, this area is home to famous villages like Gevrey-Chambertin, Vosne-Romanée, and Chambolle-Musigny. The Côte de Nuits is where most of Burgundy’s red Grand Crus are found, including the legendary vineyards of Romanée-Conti, Clos de Vougeot, and Chambertin. The wines from this region are known for their complexity, depth, and ability to age gracefully. The Côte de Nuits is often regarded as the pinnacle of Pinot Noir production.
Côte de Beaune
The Côte de Beaune, situated south of the Côte de Nuits, is famous for producing some of the world’s finest Chardonnay, along with notable red wines. Key villages include Puligny-Montrachet, Chassagne-Montrachet, and Meursault, known for their rich, full-bodied white wines with complex minerality. The region is also home to red wine appellations like Pommard and Volnay, which produce elegant, refined Pinot Noirs. The Côte de Beaune is known for its diversity, with a mix of Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards that showcase the region’s exceptional terroir. The area around Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy, is also steeped in history and culture.
Chablis
Chablis is located in the northernmost part of Burgundy and is synonymous with crisp, mineral-driven Chardonnay. The region’s cool climate and limestone-rich soils produce wines with high acidity, citrus flavors, and a distinctive flinty character. Chablis is divided into four appellations: Petit Chablis, Chablis, Chablis Premier Cru, and Chablis Grand Cru, with the latter representing the pinnacle of quality. The purity and precision of Chablis wines have made them highly sought after, especially for pairing with seafood and other delicate dishes. Chablis stands apart from the rest of Burgundy for its unique style and expression of Chardonnay.
Côte Chalonnaise
The Côte Chalonnaise lies to the south of the Côte d'Or and is often considered one of Burgundy’s hidden gems. The region is known for producing high-quality wines at more accessible prices compared to its more famous neighbors. Key appellations include Mercurey, which is known for its structured red wines, and Rully and Montagny, which are celebrated for their elegant white wines. The Côte Chalonnaise also produces excellent Crémant de Bourgogne, a sparkling wine made using the traditional method. The region’s diverse terroir and variety of wines make it an appealing destination for those seeking to explore Burgundy beyond the Côte d'Or.
Mâconnais
The Mâconnais is located in the southernmost part of Burgundy and is primarily known for its white wines made from Chardonnay. The region’s wines are generally more approachable and affordable than those from the Côte d'Or, with a fresh, fruit-forward style. Key appellations include Pouilly-Fuissé, which produces some of the region’s most prestigious wines, as well as Mâcon-Villages and Saint-Véran. The Mâconnais is characterized by its rolling hills, limestone soils, and a warm climate, which contribute to the ripe, expressive character of its wines. The region is an excellent introduction to Burgundy for those looking to explore the world of Chardonnay.
Beaujolais
Although technically part of the Burgundy wine region, Beaujolais has its own distinct identity and is best known for producing light, fruity red wines made from the Gamay grape. The region is divided into Beaujolais AOC, Beaujolais-Villages, and the ten Crus of Beaujolais, with the Crus producing the most structured and complex wines. Famous Crus like Morgon, Fleurie, and Moulin-à-Vent showcase the versatility and depth that Beaujolais wines can achieve. While Beaujolais Nouveau is popular for its fresh, easy-drinking style, the region’s top wines are serious and age-worthy, offering excellent value for those looking to explore Burgundy’s diversity.