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Discover wines from ‘Bourgogne plus’ geographical denominations
Consumers looking to discover great-value wines that unearth the secrets of their terroir should delve into the ‘Bourgogne plus’ geographical denominations.
Covering around 3,150 hectares, and representing 53.4% of the total surface area of the Bourgogne AOC, Bourgogne plus geographical denominations are 13 extremely precise locations, ranging from just one hectare in size (Bourgogne La Chapelle Notre-Dame) to 624ha (Bourgogne Hautes Côtes de Beaune).
Exploring the wines belonging to these different Bourgogne plus denominations is a fantastic way to discover the terroirs of the region and to unearth the breadth of treasures that Bourgogne has to offer. Not only do winemakers in Bourgogne plus denominations benefit from the expertise and collective drive to improve the quality of Bourgogne wine across the board, they are also held to more rigorous specifications, meaning that wines from Bourgogne plus denominations are a first step into the notion of terroir – while remaining excellent value for money.
They are also entirely unique. When you drink a glass of wine from Bourgogne Tonnerre or Bourgogne Côte Chalonnaise, for example, you can be assured that you are enjoying a wine that can only have come from these locations.
Compared with Bourgogne Chardonnay or Bourgogne Pinot Noir, winemakers working in the 13 Bourgogne plus denominations, which are also largely planted with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, must adhere to smaller yields and higher sugar levels. Because of these stricter parameters, Bourgogne plus denominations are leading the charge in quality wines.
Improvements have indeed been made by all Bourgogne wineries in terms of growing practices, better oenological approaches, and the use of various materials that help to protect the environment.
If you are a buyer looking to offer your customers something truly unique then Bourgogne plus denominations have 13 original stories to tell, which are packed with rich history and infused with the DNA of the terroir from which they come.
Plenty of these geographical areas are not yet well-known among consumers, so you can be assured that Bourgogne plus wines will spark curiosity among wine fans for uncovering the secrets of the region’s diverse soils.
Furthermore, the price point of Bourgogne plus denomination wines is a tempting one, especially in light of climbing prices in more iconic AOCs. Bourgogne plus denominations are the “antechamber” or gateway to locations ascending to Village appellation status. This means they are the perfect range with which to enjoy Bourgogne wines at a more affordable price.
The fact that it was winemakers themselves who created the Bourgogne plus geographical denominations, rather than having the rigorous criteria imposed on them by a national body, means they are passionate about continually raising the bar for their wines. As such, drinking an expression from a Bourgogne plus geographical denomination sheds light not only on the spirit of a place, but on the heart of its people.
Read on for tasting notes by Michelle Cherutti-Kowal MW for a selection of handpicked wines which featured in a recent db-hosted masterclass.
And for more information on the region and its wines visit Bourgogne-wines.com
Bourgogne Chitry Constance, 2020, Domaine Olivier Morin
This 100% Chardonnay has aromas and flavours of lemons and green apples. A zesty acidity is well balanced with the round texture of lees aging. A lively and fresh wine.
Bourgogne Côte Chalonnaise, Roche, 2020, Domaine Gouffier
There is a hint of almonds, along with peaches and red apples. This 100% Chardonnay expression has a creamy palate, with crisp but integrated acidity, and a touch of honey and pear on the long finish.
Bourgogne Côtes d’Auxerre, Le Court Vit, 2019, Domaine Guilhem et Jean-Hughes Goisot
A 100% Pinot Noir bursting with fresh cranberries and red currants, with a hint of dried herbs, and good depth of red fruit on the palate with a touch of wood smoke. Tannins are smoothly balanced with the tart acidity. Nice typicity.
Bourgogne Côte d’Or, L’Embellie, 2020
This Pinot Noir has abundant red berries and plums with a floral hint on both the nose and palate. There is rich red fruit character in the mouth with firm tannins balanced by crisp acidity. Earthy notes of ageing adds interest on the finish.
Bourgogne Hautes Côtes de Beaune, Les Foires, 2019, Domaine du Château Philippe Le Hardi
There is baking spice, marzipan and stone fruit on both nose and palate of this 100% Chardonnay. It has a rich texture in the mouth, balanced acidity, and is concentrated with a persistent finish.
Bourgogne Epineuil, Côte de Grisey, 2020, Domaine Alain Mathias
A 100% Pinot Noir with lots of dried herbs on the nose, and flavours of tart red berries with hint of black pepper. Expect crisp acidity, soft tannins and a savoury finish.
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