Wines of Burgundy (Bourgogne)

Location

• Burgundy is located in the eastern part of France.
• South of Grand Est (including Alsace) and north of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.
• Subdivided into several appellations from north to south:
  • Chablis
  • Côte de Nuit (between Dijon and Nuit-Saint-Georges)
  • Côte de Beaune
  • Côte Chalonnaise (around Chalon-sur-Saône)
  • Mâconnais (around Mâcon)
• Beaujolais is nearby but technically not part of Burgundy due to differences in climate and grape varieties.

Wine Territory

• Burgundy stretches approximately 230 km from north to south.
• Located in the middle-northern part of France.

Administrative Aspects

• French political districts are alphabetically ordered.
• Bourgogne has the district number 21.
• District number appears on car plates and postal codes.
• Example: Ile de France (Paris) is number 75.

Cultural Significance

• Bourgogne is preferred over "Burgundy" to avoid confusion with the color.
• Famous for medieval cities and historical significance.
• Known for canals and canal boats, especially the Canal de Bourgogne.

Notable Products

• Charolais Cattle: Known for white cows and bulls.

  • Produces milk for famous cheeses (e.g., Époisses, Amis de Chambertin).
  • Meat used in boeuf bourguignon (Burgundy beef stew).

• Crème de Cassis: Blackcurrant liqueur (20% alcohol)

  • Used in Kir (with white wine) and Kir Royal (with Champagne).

• Dijon Mustard: Recognized worldwide for its quality and flavor.