Burgundy (or Bourgogne in French) is small in size, the Côte d'Or has about 8000 hectares under vine, yet its influence is immense. It is home to some of the best known and most expensive wines in the world. Look in the right places and there is great quality and superb value to be found.

The two major grapes are Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, though you can find small pockets of well-made Aligoté.

Pinot Noir is the holy grail grape for many winemakers, it is a difficult mistress, but when made well it shines.

Young Pinot Noir has delicious aromas of cherries, raspberries, and strawberries. With age it develops complexity and mystery. Older wines have the capacity to become a gamey style of wine, and the best examples show autumnal notes of truffles, mushrooms, and forest floor.