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Burgundy It’s highly likely that French wine would lose much of its fame if Burgundy ceased producing its prize-winning bottles. The ruddy goodness smelled and savored by experts around the world has created a sort of collective, psychic beholdenness to the place of this delectable wine’s origin. Yet the blood red richness evoked by the word “Burgundy” has a blanc side as well. Indeed, while the region is internationally renowned for its Pinot Noir, it is also a major producer of Pinot Blanc, although among whites Chardonnay steals the day in the province of Burgundy, France.
Visitors to this vineyard-quilted region come to taste not only the wine, but the sumptuous cuisine, many plates of which are bathed in the delicious grape nectar, Coq al vin and Beef Bourguignon especially coming to mind. When looking for restaurants and other attractions in Burgundy, the best place to start is Beaune, whose L´Ecusson does a superb job of avoiding the stuffiness of traditional cuisine, while simultaneously honoring it a series of delicious fusion dishes.
In Beaune, the famous Burgundy Tasting Cellars provide an underground expedition for the senses, from which you’ll probably emerge with a handful of prized bottles of reds and whites for your own personal cellar. Before going underground, however, be sure to exploit your doomed sobriety by taking in the Basilique Notre Dame Church in all its glory. Afterwards, a boat ride on the Burgundy Canal is a perfect way to wile away the afternoon as the sun smolders, well, burgundy over the horizon. Pop open another bottle and lay out the fine cheese and crackers, this afternoon-evening repast upon the water’s surface will accentuate the inherent romance that is not just Burgundy, it’s France.
The nouveau riche of California and Australia may feel that a limousine is the only way to tour wineries throughout their respective wine countries. Sophisticated travels to Burgundy, however, know that true wine tasting enjoyment comes from cycling between wineries. Cruising through the idyllic countryside interspersed with colorful vineyards and peasants and shepherds tending their pastures demarcated by crumbling stone walls, the fragrance of the crops and harvest will intoxicate you as the wind rushes by your face. The Mconnais and Chablis are among the most exceptional regions, by far. |
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