The wines of Burgundy are changing well, at least the name is- what’s in a name? Did you know Chablis is from Burgundy? Sydney is experiencing a Chablis resurgence. Let me explain!
Have you ever had Chablis? Chablis is made of Chardonnay grapes.
Bourgogne vs. Burgundy – what’s in a name?
For years, wines from this region have been widely known as “Burgundy,” which led many consumers to associate the name exclusively with red wine. Over time, this influenced the perception that the Burgundy region primarily produces red wines, reinforcing a limited understanding of its full range.
However, to restore its true identity and reflect the diversity of its wines, the region and its producers are now returning to their original French name: “Bourgogne.” Historically, Bourgogne was the only French wine appellation that adopted different names for export markets, including “Burgundy” in English-speaking countries. Today, nearly all wines from this region already use “Bourgogne” on labels and appellations, helping wine lovers recognize the region’s full spectrum of offerings beyond just red wine.
Image: Bourgognewines.com
What is an appellation? An appellation in French wine refers to a legally defined area that ensures quality and authenticity by regulating grape varieties, production methods, and geographical boundaries.
What kind of wines can be found in Bourgogne?
Bourgogne is famous for producing both red and white wines, primarily from two key grape varieties: Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
- Red wines of the region are made mostly from Pinot Noir grapes. These can be complex wines that age well. They are often described as having earthy notes and delicious hints of cherry and raspberry.
- White wines are predominantly made from Chardonnay grapes and are often known as White Burgundy. Different regions produce wines such as Bourgogne Blanc (unoaked), Chablis unoaked, Maconnais unoaked and Côte de Beaune with big oaked flavours. Bourgogne whites range from crisp and mineral-driven to rich and buttery, depending on the region
- Other varieties: The region also grows Gamay (red) and Aligoté (white), along with smaller amounts of Sauvignon Blanc and other minor varietals.
Bourgogne’s wines are classified into different levels, including Grand Cru, Premier Cru, Village, and Regional wines, reflecting the quality and prestige of the vineyards.
Image : Pixabay
A Chablis Masterclass
What’s a masterclass? Just as it says. An opportunity to learn from experts. In the case of wine, it’s a guided tasting of specific wines. To make this one interesting, it was a tasting of some of Burgundy’s most loved and well known white wines.
There are two styles or types of Chablis. Chablis and Petit Chablis. This tasting was to discover the difference between the two. (Confession: I had never heard of petit chablis before this)
Both Chablis and Petit Chablis come from the Chablis wine region in northern Burgundy, France, and they are made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes but they do have there own specific tastes.
You will soon see a resurgence in Sydney of these wines. I tried them at a masterclass. I haven’t had a Chablis for years!
Tastings often include a blind tasting. The purpose of not knowing what you are tasting is that (blind) or without being swayed by a name or label, you concentrate more on the taste and the aromas. This had a mixture of Chablis and Petit Chablis. So, armed with a description of their differences, we tasted a selection of 4. I loved this, and I guessed 3 of 4 correctly. (Maybe just lucky)
Chablis vs. Petit Chablis. What are they. What do they taste like?
- Quality & Classification
- Chablis is the more prestigious appellation, known for its minerality, crisp acidity, and complexity.
- Petit Chablis is a lighter, more accessible wine that is usually fruitier and less complex.
- Location & Terroir
- Chablis wines come from the best vineyard sites, often on Kimmeridgian limestone soils, which enhance their minerality.
- Petit Chablis comes from vineyards located on Portlandian limestone, a different type of soil that produces wines with more citrus-forward flavors and softer minerality.
The names reflect their classification in the official Chablis AOC system:
- “Chablis” refers to wines from the main Chablis region, regarded for their ability to age (cellaring). Chablis is typically tighter, more structured, and has a strong sense of terroir, often showing notes of green apple, citrus, flint, and white flowers.
- “Petit Chablis” literally means “small Chablis,” a simpler, fresher style when compared to its bigger sibling. Petit Chablis is easy-drinking, fresh, and lively, with more straightforward fruit flavours.
While Chablis is often seen as more premium, Petit Chablis can be a fantastic budget-friendly option, so look out Sydney for the Chablis resurgence
This masterclass was part of The Bourgogne Wine Board’s new Australian Promotion (Bourgogne take a closer look). The Bourgogne Wine Board is importing Chablis and Petit Chablis. Look out for them in bottleshops and restaurants soon.
Try these recipes with a glass of Chablis:
Baby Corn Pikelets, Smoked Salmon and sour cream
Dry Brined, Miso, Maple and Butter Basted Roast Chicken
Sticky Pork Scotch Fillet & Raw Sweet and Sour
Salmon Teriyaki, Pickled Ginger Sesame Slaw
