Burgundy Wine Study Guide for Certified Sommelier Exam Preparation
Burgundy is the epitome of terroir expression, with its wines reflecting the unique characteristics of individual vineyards. The region's classification system, which includes Grand Cru, Premier Cru, Village, and Regional wines, is a cornerstone of wine theory for the Certified Sommelier exam. Additionally, Burgundy's focus on two primary grape varieties—Pinot Noir and Chardonnay—offers a deep dive into how climate, soil, and winemaking techniques influence wine styles.
Key Points to Study for Burgundy as a Certified Sommelier
To help you focus your studies, here is a detailed breakdown of Burgundy's essential elements:
1. Geography and Sub-Regions
Burgundy is located in eastern France and is divided into five primary sub-regions from north to south:
Chablis: Known for its steely, mineral-driven Chardonnay. Focus on the seven Grand Cru vineyards, such as Les Clos and Vaudésir, and notable Premier Crus like Montée de Tonnerre.
Côte de Nuits: The heart of Pinot Noir production, with legendary Grand Crus like Romanée-Conti, Chambertin, and La Tâche. Villages to know include Gevrey-Chambertin, Vosne-Romanée, and Nuits-Saint-Georges.
Côte de Beaune: Famous for both red and white wines, with iconic Chardonnay Grand Crus like Montrachet and Corton-Charlemagne. Key villages include Meursault, Puligny-Montrachet, and Pommard.
Côte Chalonnaise: Known for value-driven wines, including Mercurey (red and white), Rully (sparkling and white), and Bouzeron (100% Aligoté).
Mâconnais: Focused on Chardonnay, with Pouilly-Fuissé being the standout appellation. Study the newly designated Premier Cru vineyards here.
2. Classification System
Burgundy's classification system is hierarchical and terroir-focused:
Grand Cru: The highest classification, representing the best vineyards. Examples include Romanée-Conti, Montrachet, and Clos de Vougeot.
Premier Cru: High-quality vineyards within specific villages. Examples include Les Amoureuses (Chambolle-Musigny) and Les Perrières (Meursault).
Village Wines: Wines labeled with the name of the village, such as Gevrey-Chambertin or Chablis.
Regional Wines: Entry-level wines labeled as Bourgogne AOP, Bourgogne Aligoté, or Crémant de Bourgogne.
3. Soil Types
Burgundy's soils are diverse and play a significant role in the region's terroir:
Limestone and Marl: Found throughout the Côte d'Or, these soils are ideal for both Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Kimmeridgian Clay: Dominates Chablis, contributing to its mineral-driven style.
Granite: Found in parts of Beaujolais, which is technically part of Burgundy.
4. Grape Varieties
Burgundy focuses on two primary grape varieties:
Pinot Noir: Known for its elegance, red fruit flavors, and earthy complexity. Study the differences between Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune Pinot Noir.
Chardonnay: Styles range from the lean, mineral-driven wines of Chablis to the rich, opulent wines of Puligny-Montrachet and Meursault.
5. Notable Producers
Knowing key producers is essential for the Certified Sommelier exam. Here is an updated and expanded list of Burgundy's most important producers:
Chablis:
Domaine William Fèvre: A leading producer of Chablis, with holdings in Grand Cru vineyards like Les Clos and Bougros.
Domaine François Raveneau: Produces some of the most sought-after Chablis wines, including Montée de Tonnerre and Les Clos.
Domaine Christian Moreau: Known for its Grand Cru Chablis wines, including Les Clos and Valmur.
Côte de Nuits:
Domaine de la Romanée-Conti (DRC): Produces legendary wines like Romanée-Conti, La Tâche, and Richebourg.
Domaine Armand Rousseau: Known for exceptional Gevrey-Chambertin wines, including Chambertin and Clos Saint-Jacques.
Domaine Georges Roumier: A benchmark producer in Chambolle-Musigny, with wines like Bonnes-Mares and Les Amoureuses.
Domaine Comte Georges de Vogüé: Renowned for its Chambolle-Musigny wines, including Musigny Grand Cru.
Domaine Ponsot: Famous for Morey-Saint-Denis and Clos de la Roche.
Domaine Faiveley: A historic producer with holdings in both Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune, including Clos de Vougeot and Corton.
Côte de Beaune:
Domaine Leflaive: A benchmark producer of white Burgundy from Puligny-Montrachet, including Chevalier-Montrachet.
Domaine Coche-Dury: Known for its cult-status Meursault wines.
Domaine Jacques Prieur: Produces wines from both red and white Grand Cru vineyards, including Montrachet and Musigny.
Domaine des Comtes Lafon: Renowned for its Meursault Premier Cru wines like Les Perrières.
Domaine Bouchard Père et Fils: A historic négociant with holdings in Grand Cru vineyards like Montrachet and Corton-Charlemagne.
Domaine de Montille: Known for elegant Volnay and Pommard wines.
Côte Chalonnaise:
Domaine A. & P. de Villaine: Co-owned by Aubert de Villaine of DRC, this producer is known for Bouzeron and Mercurey wines.
Domaine Faiveley: Also a key player in Côte Chalonnaise, producing excellent Mercurey wines.
Mâconnais:
Domaine Ferret: A top producer in Pouilly-Fuissé, known for its terroir-driven Chardonnay.
Domaine Guffens-Heynen: Produces exceptional Mâconnais wines with a focus on Chardonnay.
Domaine Saumaize-Michelin: Known for biodynamic wines from Pouilly-Fuissé and Saint-Véran.
6. Key Vintages
Burgundy's vintage variation is significant due to its cool climate. Focus on recent standout vintages:
2015: Warm and ripe, producing rich, concentrated wines.
2017: Balanced and approachable, with excellent aging potential.
2019: A warm vintage with vibrant acidity and ripe fruit.
7. Food Pairing
Burgundy wines are versatile and pair well with a range of dishes:
Chablis: Perfect with oysters, goat cheese, and light seafood dishes.
Côte de Nuits Pinot Noir: Pairs beautifully with duck, mushroom risotto, and roasted chicken.
Côte de Beaune Chardonnay: Ideal with lobster, creamy pasta, and roasted poultry.
8. Tips for Blind Tasting Burgundy
Pinot Noir: Look for red fruit (cherry, raspberry), earthy notes (forest floor, mushroom), and high acidity.
Chardonnay: Identify citrus, green apple, and mineral notes in Chablis, and richer flavors like butter and hazelnut in Côte de Beaune.
9. Study Resources
For in-depth Burgundy study, visit SOMM DIGI AI, which offers detailed guides and resources tailored for Certified Sommeliers.
Conclusion
Burgundy is a cornerstone of wine knowledge for the Certified Sommelier exam. By mastering its sub-regions, classification system, and key producers, you'll be well-prepared to tackle both the theory and blind tasting portions of the exam. Use this guide as a roadmap to focus your studies and elevate your understanding of this legendary wine region.
