Deciphering Burgundy Wine Labels

Wine made in the Burgundy region in eastern France.

Understanding a Burgundy wine label can be a daunting task, especially for those new to the world of wine. However, once you know what to look for, these labels can provide a wealth of information about the wine inside the bottle. This article will guide you through the key elements of a Burgundy wine label.

Understanding the Information on a Burgundy Wine Label

A typical Burgundy wine label will include the following information:

• Producer: This is the name of the winery or vineyard that produced the wine. In Burgundy, the producer's reputation can significantly influence the quality and price of the wine.

• Vineyard Name: Many Burgundy wines are named after the vineyard where the grapes were grown. This is because Burgundy follows a 'terroir' approach to winemaking, where the specific location of the vineyard is believed to greatly influence the taste of the wine.

• Region or Village: This indicates the specific area within Burgundy where the grapes were grown. The most prestigious regions are the Côte d'Or (which is split into Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune), Côte Chalonnaise, and Mâconnais.

• Grape Variety: Most Burgundy wines are made from just two grape varieties: Pinot Noir for red wines and Chardonnay for white wines. However, you won't often see these names on the labels, as Burgundy wines are typically labelled by their region or vineyard rather than grape variety.

The Classification System: Grand Cru, Premier Cru, Village, and Regional Wines

Burgundy wines are classified into four quality levels, which you'll often see indicated on the label:

• Grand Cru: These are the highest quality wines, made from grapes grown in the best vineyard sites. Only about 2% of all Burgundy wines are classified as Grand Cru.

• Premier Cru: These wines are a step down from Grand Cru, but still of high quality. They're made from grapes grown in specific vineyard sites that are considered to be of superior, but not the absolute best, quality.

• Village Wines: These wines are made from grapes grown in vineyards around specific villages. They're typically of good quality and offer a good introduction to Burgundy wines.

• Regional Wines: These are the most basic level of Burgundy wines, made from grapes that can come from anywhere in the Burgundy region.

Vintage Year and Its Importance

The vintage year, or the year the grapes were harvested, is another important piece of information you'll find on a Burgundy wine label. Because Burgundy has a cool climate with significant vintage variation, the quality and taste of the wine can vary greatly from year to year. As a general rule, look for warm growing seasons for the best quality Burgundy wines.

In conclusion, while Burgundy wine labels may seem complex at first glance, they offer a wealth of information for those who know what to look for. By understanding the producer, vineyard, region, classification, and vintage year, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the wine and make more informed choices when selecting a bottle.