Bourgogne Wine Region Guide

The Bourgogne wine area, French for Burgundy, has a lengthy history, with vines planted more than 2000 years ago. Bourgogne is a Burgundy wine area regional wine that does not have district-specific appellations. The wines produced here are mostly red, with a few whites and rose thrown in for good measure. Many of the villages and towns in the region are among the most well-known in France. Burgundy's appellation system is highly complex, as the region is home to over 700 appellation labels for its wine. This well-known regional wine is produced by over 300 communes. On November 22, 2011, the Bourgogne wine region was established with five primary wine-growing areas.

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Where is the Bourgogne wine region?

The Bourgogne wine region is located in eastern France and is one of the world's most-known wine areas. The region runs from Auxerre in the north to Macon in the south. The vines are cultivated in the valleys and slopes west of Saone, a Rhone tributary. The wine area of Bourgogne includes 54 communes in the Yonne Department, 91 communes in the Cote d'Or, and 154 communes in the Saone et Loire. Autun, Chalon-sur-Saone, Montceau-Les-Mines, Auxerre, Dijon, Nevers, Avallon, Le Creusot, Paray-le-Monial, Beaune, Macon, and Sens are some of the prominent communes in the Bourgogne wine region. The region is 175km north of the city of Lyon which would take around 2 hour trip.

History of the Bourgogne wine region

Burgundy is a historical state and province of East central France. The province was once home to the Dukes of Burgundy from the 11th century to the late 15th century. Dijon, the capital of Burgundy, was once a great center of great Europe and well-regarded in art, science, wealth, and power. The region has been producing wines since the 2nd century and has a long history in winemaking that goes back to the Middle Ages. The region practiced viticulture since the reign of the Celts but the actual wine production started only after the arrival of Greek traders. Monks and monasteries played a significant role in the development of Burgundy wines. These wines were very famous and often served in major events hosted by royals. During the 18th century, wines were exported around the world which flourished the reputation of Burgundy wines. 

The terroir and geography of the Bourgogne wine region

The Bourgogne wine area is large and diversified in terms of geography, climate, and soil. The vineyards are placed at the slopes of the valley on limestone mixed soils with some clays and marl. Because of the high concentration of limestones and mars, the foot of the slope in the Cote d'Or department is whitish or light grey. The earth has excellent drainage properties. Granite-based soils characterize the southern half of Saone. The climate in the Bourgogne wine region is maritime with some continental features.

Popular grape varieties from the Bourgogne wine region

The primary grape variety planted in the Bourgogne wine region is Chardonnay which accounts for more than 48% of the total grape production. Pinot Noir is the region's second most planted grape variety, accounting for 35% of total production. Other notable grape types cultivated in the Bourgogne wine region are Aligote, Gamay, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Cesar, and Sauvignon Blanc.

Food to pair with Bourgogne wine 

Seared Tuna

The seared tuna tastes delicious and has a crisp crust. The main ingredients are tuna, salt, pepper, garlic, oil, and butter. The preparation of dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare. Seared tuna is a dish that consists of a piece of tuna that has been seared. Tuna is a fish that can be found in the ocean. It is popular for its high protein content and health benefits. Tuna is a popular fish that many people enjoy. It can be cooked in many ways but the most popular way of cooking tuna is searing it. Seared tuna can be served with a variety of side dishes such as rice, pasta, or potatoes. Serve it with amazing wines from the Bourgogne wine region. 

Lamb Roast

A lamb roast is a dish that is often served as a centerpiece at a dinner party or family celebration. This dish has been around for centuries and its popularity has not dwindled since its inception. The lamb roast is typically prepared by roasting the meat in an oven with vegetables, herbs, and spices. The ingredients are then wrapped tightly in aluminum foil and roasted for about three hours. This dish can be served with potatoes, carrots, celery root, or any other vegetable of your choice. The lamb roast can also be served with gravy sauce. Grilled lamb is delicious when served with a side of vegetables and a flavorful sauce. 

Vézelay 

Vézelay is a commune in the Yonne department in Burgundy, France. It is located on the hilltop overlooking the Morvan mountain range and the Yonne River, around 10 kilometers southwest of Auxerre. Vézelay is best known for its Romanesque abbey church, which was founded in 1096 and contains what is said to be the Virgin Mary's Girdle and Saint Mary Magdalene’s Veil. The site was one of the most important ones of medieval Christianity. The town has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983.

Places to visit in the Bourgogne wine region

Dijon

Dijon is a commune in eastern France, the capital of the Côte-d'Or département. It is located on the banks of the river Saône, between Lyon and Geneva. Dijon is home to one of the world's major wine industries, making it a major player in the world wine trade. The historic center of the town is the Palais des Ducs which is a medieval palace flaunting the grandiosity of Ducal life. The palace also houses a Musée des Beaux-Arts which is one of the best art museums in France. The Eglise Notre Dame, erected in the 13th century in spectacular Burgundian Gothic architecture, is Dijon's most prominent church.

Beaune 

Beaune is a town in the Côte d'Or department in eastern France, with a population of about 20,000. It is located between Dijon and Chalon-sur-Saône. Beaune is noted for wine production but also has a strong culinary tradition. Beaune is one of the most important wine-producing towns in the world and its wines are among the most highly prized and sought-after wines in the world. Hospices de Beaune is a most important landmark of Beaune which is a hospital built for the poor. This amazing structure houses a museum exhibiting exquisite tapestries and precious altarpieces. The Romanesque Collégiale Basilique Notre-Dame and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which houses many great specimens of French, Flemish, and Dutch painting, as well as modern artworks, are also noteworthy.

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Frequently asked questions about Bourgogne