The Wines and Winemakers of the Heart of Burgundy
The name Côte d’Or might not be well known but it is one of the original 83 departments created during the French Revolution. It was formed from part of the former province of Burgundy. This is not only a beautiful part of France but a celebrated wine-growing region. It produces what some say are the world’s finest wines, from such grapes as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. They say that the wine from the Côte d’Or was enjoyed by Emperor Charlemagne.
Côte d’Or is a small area but with a great reputation. It is divided into two famous parts – Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune. It covers a 35-mile strip and produces some of the world’s most celebrated and costly vintages.
The author, Raymond Blake, has penned this book specifically to shed more light on the wines of this region. He explains the history of winemaking here, along with the significance of its soil, geology and climate. He meets a group of formidable producers and provides his insight on each one. There is a summary of the characteristics of each vintage over several decades, along with notes on some earlier vintages.
This is a book for the wine enthusiast and particularly those who might be planning a trip to the region. This would be a guide as well as a catalogue of recommended wine purchases. Some enthralling wine-related reading for those who thirst for more knowledge about Côte d’Or. Raymond Blake is well qualified to pen such a book, being one of Ireland’s leading wine writers. He has been wine editor of Food & Wine Magazine since its launch in 1997. Unsurprisingly, he has a house in Cote d’Or.
Côte d’Or
Author: Raymond Blake
Publisher: Infinite Ideas
Price: £30.00
ISBN-10: 1908984929
ISBN-13: 978-1908984920
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Book review by Chrissie Walker © 2018