Geography & Climate
Burgundy lies in eastern France, between Dijon and Lyon. Its climate is continental — with cold winters, hot summers, and unpredictable weather (especially spring frosts and summer hail).
The region’s magic lies in its geology: millions of years of tectonic activity created a mosaic of soil types, particularly limestone and marl, which define the flavor of the wines. The vineyards are often arranged on gentle slopes for optimal drainage and sun exposure.
History of Burgundy
Viticulture in Burgundy dates back to Roman times, but it was the Cistercian and Benedictine monks of the Middle Ages who truly mapped the region’s vineyards, identifying its complex patchwork of terroirs known as climats. By the 14th century, Burgundy’s wines were highly sought after across Europe.
The French Revolution redistributed vineyard ownership, creating the fragmented system we see today — with many growers owning only a few rows of vines. Burgundy’s emphasis on terroir, history, and classification makes it a model of precision and legacy in winemaking.