Perfumed, berry-fruited, deeply flavoured Burgundy red wines are typically made from 100% pinot noir, with little exception. Here is Pinot's heartland, after all. It's where the wine world learnt to cultivate what many in it consider to be the noblest of all red varietals. Where, over the centuries, Burgundy's tightly knit patchwork of vineyards has been home to the most diverse expressions of pinot noir, and indeed to some of the most sublime, exclusive, coveted cuvées on earth. None has worked the Pinot vine like the Burgundian. So, as a tribute to this history and dazzling diversity, we have selected here a handful from across the Burgundy red wine spectrum to bring you a delicious range of Pinot-drinking pleasures.
Burgundy Fine Red Wine
The Tradition and Heartland of Pinot Noir - Burgundy Red Wine
Burgundy red wine expertly devotes itself to only one grape, Pinot Noir. Unlike the blends of Bordeaux and Rhône, the inherent qualities of the grape are built upon - brilliantly showcased alone. The variation of Burgundy red wine comes from the soil compositions in the specific Climats in which the grapes are grown. Some plots, such as those in the village of Gevrey-Chamberlain, produce more structured wines than those from Chambolle-Musigny, which are known for their elegant character.
Burgundy red wine offers a symphony of flavours, from the bright red fruits to mesmerising notes of the earthy forest floor. From wild strawberries, tart cherries, and ripe raspberries to savoury spices and tea leaves, the frutiness and minerality of this wine dance on the palate. With an equally sublime, light to medium-bodied mouthfeel and velvety tannins, Burgundy red wine offers a nuanced, truly enchanting experience.
Its essence is tied to the French terroir of its namesake region, from the slopes of the Côte de Nuits, the Côte de Beaune, to the Côte Chalonnaise. Each village expresses a unique personality, where only minute differences entirely alter the character of a wine, shifting the balance of acidity and fruit.
If you’re just beginning your journey with Burgundy fine red wine, we recommend an approachable Bourgogne Rouge. Its fruit-forward style and soft tannins are a wonderful place to start. However, if you’re seeking a deep, intellectual alternative with incredible aging potential, a Grand Cru will scratch your itch. With immensely complex layers of flavour and aroma, this quintessential varietal offers an unforgettable experience.
Burgundy Fine Red Wine FAQs
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Which Red Grape Makes Burgundy Wine?
Burgundy wine is made primarily from Pinot Noir, occasionally blending Gamay and César. The integration of multiple grapes produces intense, complex Burgundy wines with rich colour and tannins.
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Where Does Burgundy Wine Come From?
Burgundy wine comes from the Burgundy wine region in east-central France. This area is renowned for its limestone-rich soils, which produce distinctive, mineral-rich wines, including Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. This region is also famous for its climats - defined vineyards that create wines with unique identities and qualities.
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What Food Goes With Burgundy Wine?
Red Burgundy wine is very well paired with rich, hearty duck and lamb meals with dominant umami broths. Conversely, a White Burgundy will shine with creamy, herby fish dishes, truffles, as well as regional cheeses, including Gougères.