The Original Grands Crus of Burgundy

Book excerpt: The Original Grands Crus of Burgundy is a translation from works describing the vineyards of the Cote d'Or written prior to the establishment of today's system of Appellation d'Origine Controlee in 1936 and a discussion of how they compare to the modern system. For centuries, a number of authors ranging from learned amateurs to experienced professionals weighed in with their thoughts, including Claude Arnoux, Dissertation sur la situation de la Bourgogne, sur les vins qu'elle produit (1728); Claude Courtepee and Edme Beguillet, Description historique et topographique du Duche de Bourgogne (1778); Andre Jullien, Topographie de Tous les Vignobles Connus (1816); Dr. Denis Morelot, Statistique de la Vigne dans le Departement de la Cote d'Or (1831) ; Dr. Jules Lavalle, Histoire et Statistique et des Grands Vins de la Cote d'Or (1855) ; Rene Danguy and Charles Aubertin, Les Grands Vins de Bourgogne (1892) ; and Camille Rodier, Le Vin de Bourgogne (1920). More than a dusty history lesson, The Original Grands Crus of Burgundy provides a roadmap for the discovery of forgotten gems, hidden in plain sight. Crucial reading for all who love Burgundy.