Out of all the wines, Burgundy, especially red Burgundy, can be quite difficult to understand. With a light colour, high acidity, and light tannins, this wine comes with a pleasurable aroma. If you ask any wine lover, then they will probably share with you that red burgundy wine is the holy grail of viticulture. While most wine lovers probably know about this wine, if you are new to the world of wine, you may be wondering about the hype surrounding burgundy wines. So, here we are to help you find out more about this. In this blog, we will be discussing everything you need to know about burgundy wines and what makes them unique. 

All You Need To Know About Burgundy Wines: 

What is Burgundy Wine? 

According to industry experts, Burgundy wines represent the apex of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. This is the region that produces white wines made from the Aligote grape variety. Many winemakers also cultivate the lesser-known Gamay and Aligote grapes in this region. You might not know, but Gamay is mostly found in fruity reds like the Beaujolais. On the other hand, the aligote grape can be found in the Bourgogne aligote, which is basically a young white wine. 

A Brief History of Burgundy Wines

The history of Burgundy wines is as rich and textured as the wines themselves. The Romans first cultivated the vineyards of Burgundy, but it was the monks during the Middle Ages who truly honed the craft. These monastic communities meticulously studied the land, identifying and nurturing the best plots, which they termed climates. This practice laid the foundation for the region's intricate appellation system.

In the 19th century, the concept of terroir—the idea that a wine reflects the unique characteristics of its growing environment—became central to Burgundy winemaking. Today, UNESCO recognizes Burgundy's terroir as a World Heritage site, underscoring its significance and enduring legacy. 

Burgundy's Grape Varieties

Burgundy's winemaking tradition revolves around two primary grape varieties: Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. These grapes are the cornerstone of the region's red and white wines, respectively.

Burgundy is synonymous with Pinot Noir, a grape that thrives in the region's varied microclimates and soils. Burgundy's Pinot Noirs are celebrated for their elegance, complexity, and ability to express the nuances of their terroir. Typical flavour profiles include red berries, earth, and floral notes with a silky texture and vibrant acidity.

Burgundy is also the spiritual home of Chardonnay. The region's Chardonnays range from the lean, mineral-driven wines of Chablis to the rich, buttery expressions from Côte de Beaune. Common flavor notes include citrus, green apple, pear, and subtle oak influences, depending on the winemaking style.

Why Should You Drink Burgundy Wine 

If you are someone who loves wines that express the place they originate from with clarity and elegance, then the reds of Burgundy should be on the top of your list. Whether you choose the Chardonnay or Pinot Noir, Burgundy is a place whose magic reveals itself in rewarding and fascinating ways. 

In addition to that, they are also quite useful at the table. Because the different varieties of burgundy wines can be light and energetic or dense and more propulsive, this is the reason why burgundy wine wholesale Singapore market is in demand. The best part? There's no limit to what you should pair with a burgundy wine when it comes to food. Lastly, both red and white burgundy wines are also counted among the most collectable wines anywhere. 

How Does Burgundy Taste Like? 

The finest red and white Burgundy wines, whether they lean towards fruity or savoury flavours, crisp minerality, floral aromas, or earthy hints like a forest floor and mushrooms, usually maintain a balanced character. Even oak-aged white Burgundies are typically influenced rather than dominated by their time in barrels. Essentially, Burgundy is often associated with elegance and an emphasis on terroir—even in the more robust vintages.

Food Pairing with Burgundy Wines

Burgundy wines are incredibly versatile when it comes to food pairing, thanks to their balance, elegance, and complexity. Here are some classic pairings to consider

Mushrooms: The umami notes of mushrooms complement the savory and earthy characteristics of Burgundy Pinot Noir.

Roast Chicken: A simple roast chicken pairs beautifully with the balanced acidity and red fruit flavors of Pinot Noir.

Seafood: Chablis, with its high acidity and minerality, is an excellent match for oysters, scallops, and other seafood.

Creamy Dishes: The buttery texture of Côte de Beaune Chardonnays pairs well with creamy dishes like chicken in cream sauce or risotto.

Conclusion

Burgundy wines offer a journey through centuries of winemaking tradition. It showcases the profound impact of terroir and the meticulous craftsmanship of its vintners. Whether you're savouring a crisp Chablis or a complex Pinot Noir from Côte de Nuits, each bottle of Burgundy tells a story of its unique origin.

Exploring Burgundy wines may seem daunting at first, but with this guide, you will be better able to appreciate the nuances and beauty of this wine region. So, next time you uncork a bottle of Burgundy, take a moment to savour not just the wine but the rich history and passion that went into its creation. Cheers!