1,247 climates in Burgundy

by | 23 Oct 2020 | Non classé | 0 comments

" Climates" represent a concept specific to Burgundy !

Climate of Burgundy

 

Let yourself be transported by watching this video (made by La Maison des Climats in Beaune):

Be careful not to confuse the word climate with the meaning of meteorology, it is a key term in the vineyards of Burgundy !

Climates designate small plots of land within the appellations of Burgundy developed since the Middle Ages, they are unique treasures in the world. A total of 1,247 climates, they are protected and recognized by the Appellations d'Origine Contrôlée since 1936. In addition, the climates of Burgundy have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 4 July 2015.

They take into account several things:

  • the know-how of the winegrowers
  • geological characteristics (the orientation of the slope, the nature of the soil and subsoil, …)
  • special exhibitions
  • natural conditions (the grape variety, …)

=> each parcel is precisely delimited .

The know-how of the winegrowers, the climate and its place of origin make it possible to elaborate exclusive wines, of an astonishing diversity that constantly surprises lovers of beautiful bowling.

Each vine is planted in rich and complex soils and subsoils. Mostly limestone which will bring the wine a very expressive bouquet, pleasant and a lot of finesse.  

Burgundy is exposed to semi-continental weather:

  • cold and dry winters, with intense morning sunshine that makes it easier for the vines to survive frost. Average temperatures are low with regular rainfall.
  • stormy summers, with very nice sunshine and high temperatures, which promotes the ripening of the grapes.

Chablis, in the Yonne is exposed to weather with oceanic influence (abundant rainfall).

The Côte de Dijon in Chagny is exposed to continental weather. 

The south of Burgundy is exposed to Mediterranean weather with mild winters and sometimes scorching summers.

Generally the vines are located between 200 and 500 meters above sea level on hillsides, this facilitates the drainage of water and they benefit from the effects of the wind.

Over the centuries, the actors of the wine industry ( monks, dukes of Burgundy, winegrowers, merchants, …) have managed to leave an imprint during their passage on the vineyards. We can speak of a thousand-year-old vineyard that cultivates traditions and know-how. 

Today, Burgundians realize this immense wealth created by nature and dressed by the work of Men, which is why each person must protect the climates of Burgundy.

Let us never forget to take care of it in order to pass it on to future generations.

 

 

A large number of climates are classified in different categories of Burgundy wine appellations:

  • the communal appellations premiers crus are followed by the name of a climate : Murger des dents de chien, la Comme, Fourchaume, Sous la Roche, Les Pucelles, …
  • The Grand Cru appellations are plots of only a few hectares in a climate hence their name: Bâtard-Montrachet, Bonnes-Mares, Chablis Grand Cru, Clos de Vougeot, Échezeaux, Musigny, La Tâche, Romanée, …

 

These are appellations of controlled origin created in 1936, the specifications put in place ensure a recognized know-how of the winegrowers and the conditions of authenticity. Today these wines remain references in the world.

Unlike other regions, Burgundy wines are made from a single grape variety when making the wine, we speak of monovarietal. This is why the soil and the work of man is even more important in order to offer a quality bottle for each vintage. 

Do not wait any longer, go quickly discover this incredible heritage! 

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