What are the different qualities of Burgundy wines? Regional or Generic Burgundy -- These wines make up 22 appellations (differently names wines) which represent 53% of all wines made in Burgundy. They can be easily identified by the word Burgundy or Bourgogne in the name of the wine. They can be made anywhere within the boundaries of the region, but sometimes refer to the grape variety used (e.g. Bourgogne Aligoté). Village or Communal Appellations -- Representing 34% of Burgundy wines and 42 appellations, village wines enjoy consistently higher quality and can therefore present the name of the village as the name of the wine. Premier Cru Appellations -- These wines make up 562 appellations and represent 11% of Burgundy production. The vineyards of each village are separated into individual, named fields. Some fields prove exceptionally high quality production and are authorized to include the name of the village followed by the name of the field and the mention "Premier Cru" in the name of the wine. Example: Fixin (name of village) Premier Cru (appellation/quality rating) Clos du Chapitre (field or climat). Grand Cru Appellations -- With 33 appellations accounting for 2% of total production, grand cru wines show such exceptional quality and distinctive character, they are accorded a rating above that of premier cru. The labels indicate only the name of the field, omitting the village name. The field represents such a strong character that the village character no holds the same importance. Example: Bonnes Mares Grand Cru.

What are the determinants of the different qualities in Burgundy? Terroir - The quality of the soil in Burgundy is quite unique. The characteristics of the soil can change radically within a few meters. When this variety is combined with the differences in depth of soil, aspect, and height above sea level, the end result gives wines that transfer their own special qualities of taste and aroma. The complexity of terroir helps to explain why the landscape of Burgundy vineyards today resembles a huge mosaic of small and diverse fields.

Grape variety - The selection of grape variety is vitally important for fields to express their full potential. Through the test of time, man has learned that most Burgundy land is ideally suited for Pinot noir or Chardonnay. Climate - Burgundy enjoys a continental climate with cold, dry winters in contrast with hot summers which are ideal for grape maturation. Chardonnay and Pinot noir thrive in this type of climate. The winemaker - Without man to bring the above aspects together, there would be no wine. In caring for the vines, vinifying the grapes, and aging the wines in barrels and bottles, winemakers need knowledge, experience and a touch of luck to bring all the necessary elements together. Some winemakers excel in some areas of the process and not others. This also helps to explain the huge diversity of Burgundy wines.

What is the average size of an estate in the Côte d'Or? 12 acres! How big is Burgundy compared to Bordeaux? Each time Burgundy produces one bottle of red wine, Bordeaux produces nine. In a year, the prestigious Château d'Yquem may produce around 8,000 cases whereas the Marquis de Laguiche (the largest Montrachet vineyard owner) will only produce 700 cases. Moreover, the difference between Bordeaux and Burgundy, is that in Burgundy, what counts is the subtlety of a single grape variety from a multiplicity of soils, whereas in Bordeaux it is the subtlety of a blending of several grapes from a single terroir. Which are the main export markets for Burgundy wines? Burgundy Export Sales 1998 Volume Value United Kingdom 25% 21% United States 14% 21% Germany 14% 9% Japan 13% 18%

Vinification of red burgundies

Vinification of white burgundies

In contrast to red-wine vinification, with white wines the stalks are not separated from the grapes, but neither the stalks nor the skins are macerated since this would add undesirable colour and tannins to the wine. The clarification process which precedes fermentation is critical and is carried out by the operation of enzymes naturally present in the must.

Côte de Nuits The Côte de Nuits is a little slice of heaven on earth for red wine lovers, whether connoisseurs or beginners. It stretches for about 15 miles and is on average 330 to 1,100 yards wide. This area (as you saw while visiting the region) is home to some of the most prized wines in the world – villages like Fixin, Gevrey-Chambertin, Morey-Saint-Denis, Chambolle-Musigny, Vougeot, Vosne-Romanée, Nuits St Georges, etc.