N 17 December 2009 CLIMATE CHANGE: A CHALLENGE TO BE TAKEN UP SERENELY Since this summer, Greenpeace has justifiably been mobilising opinion on the subject of climate change and its impact on wine-growing. The association has chosen the Burgundy vineyard as a symbol of the fragility of man's precious eco-systems. Although it is true that Burgundy winegrowers have been noticing changes in the climate for a few years (harvest dates coming forward, noticeable increase in weight of the bunches of grapes etc.) we must be careful not to fantasise. This change is, for the time being, beneficial for Burgundy. Indeed, for several campaigns, it has been rare for a vintage to suffer from a maturity deficit, as was the case in the 1970s. In addition, there has been a succession of good years, as rarely seen before. It is a shame that the meaningless or exaggerated talk of some uselessly sows the seed of doubt into people's minds, when they are really only assumptions. Attentive without being alarmist, the Burgundy professionals are preparing themselves. They are not losing sight of the fact that even greater changes lay ahead. But one thing is sure: NO, Burgundy is not testing Syrah, or any other grape variety. We are not going to lose our Pinot Noir. Burgundy is relying on the diversity of its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay clones, to prepare the vines of the future! Since 2002, the Interprofessional Technical Centre of Burgundy Wines has welcomed a meteorologist to review the subject. The Burgundy professionals were therefore well aware of the subject before the media frenzy and the birds of ill omen. But the climate element is just one factor amongst others. Announcing major changes in terms of characteristics is just science-fiction, at least for now. The winegrower has a number of levers to ensure the quality of his wines: adaptation of cultivation methods, selection of Pinot Noir or Chardonnay clones which naturally grow later, change in vinification methods etc. For 2000 years the style of Burgundy wines has not ceased to evolve for a variety of reasons and not just climatic ones. With particularly hardened expertise, our vineyard is preparing itself serenely, without denying the risks, but convinced of its ability to adapt. IN FIGURES: 0 C... this is the change in the temperature index at night in Burgundy since the beginning of the 20th century. This index takes into account the minimum night-time temperatures during the phase of maturation of the grape. It is one of the indicators of the characteristics of a wine-growing region. Indeed, night-time temperatures play a very important role in the synthesis of phenolic components (colour and tannins) and aromas. To date, climate change has not had any negative impact on the important parameters involved in the maturation and production of quality grapes in Burgundy: colour, structures and aromas remain the key components in the characterisation of Burgundy wines.
BURGUNDY WINE MARKET: A HEALTHY SITUATION DESPITE THE GLOBAL ECONOMIC CRISIS After three years of growth with record sales established in 2006/2007 then a year which marked a return to equilibrium (2007/2008), the last Burgundy wines sales campaign was characterised by a considerable fall in sales (-13%), essentially due to figures recorded outside of France (-24%). The French market, however, held up well (-1 %). In the end, wine merchants' stocks have increased by only 1%. As the 2008 harvest was one of the smallest of the last 10 years (-5% compared to 2007), wine-growers' stocks, which fell in July 2008 to their lowest level since 1999, are likely to grow only slowly (roughly +5 %) and remain amongst the lowest of the decade. Burgundy s economic situation is therefore healthy on the whole, despite the gloomy international context. EXPORTS: AT ROCK BOTTOM The whole wine universe is suffering. With the global financial crisis, the situation is clear. All over, end clients are paying more attention to prices: buying lower-quality ranges, favouring promotions or distributors' brands, reduced visits and lower spending in restaurants etc. The strong euro, specifically against the dollar, is an additional constraint for exports from producer countries in the euro zone. Over the 12 months of the campaign (to end July 2009) exports from Burgundy fell by 24.5% by volume and by value, with 79.3 million bottles for 528 million euros. Compared to the average of the last five years, the fall represents 16% by volume and 12% by value. This situation is closely linked to the weight of the UK and USA (1 out of every 2 bottles of Burgundy exported is destined for one of these two markets), both of which are feeling the full impact of the crisis, and which accounts for ¾ of the decline in exports from Burgundy. In Asia, despite an average fall in sales of Burgundy wine of 20-30% on these markets (excluding Japan), it would appear that exports could return to similar rates of growth when the economy recovers. The only mature wine market in Asia, Japan remains a favourable destination for Burgundy, with exports remaining relatively stable, despite the economic backdrop. Other traditional markets such as Belgium, Germany and even Switzerland have more or less maintained their volumes of Burgundy wine imports over the first seven months of 2009. The regional AOCs, which are more affordable, have suffered to a lesser extent from the crisis, particularly white wines, whose revenues have fallen by only 9%. Burgundy wine exports are fairly well sustained by Crémant de Bourgogne, which has seen steady growth for the last 5 years. With over 4.5 million bottles sold, this appellation has sold well on various markets. FRANCE: HOLDING UP WELL Burgundy wines have resisted rather well on the French market, which represents on average one out of two bottles of Burgundy sold, a share which tends to increase in periods of crisis. In fact, the fall represents only 1% compared to the previous campaign. 97.5 million bottles were sold in France during this campaign. This result should not conceal a greater deterioration of the situation during the last few months (although the beginning of the campaign was positive) on the one hand. On the other hand, it reveals the need in recent times to step up promotions. Sales of Burgundy wines in hypermarkets and supermarkets (source IRI) were more or less stable during the campaign (-1% by volume) despite the environment. By value, sales even rose somewhat (+2.4%) with 206 million euros in revenues. The restaurant sector, already weakened by changes in consumer habits, is the main distribution network to be affected by the crisis. The estimated fall in the overall revenues of the profession amounts to some 10% this year (source catering trade). Research conducted by the Burgundy Wine Board (BIVB) at the peak of the crisis, reveals that 16% of wine consumers in restaurants plan to reduce their restaurant visits and that 18% would reduce the amount they spend. The large number of restaurants which have closed is a worrying sign for the future of this channel. According to a national survey carried out with French restaurant owners, Burgundy sold almost 19 million bottles in restaurants (source CHD). The estimated decline on this channel is around 5-10% (2008/2009 campaign). This change could deteriorate further in the coming months, as some Burgundy professionals have observed a more pronounced slowdown in restaurant orders. Burgundy wines luckily remain among the key references and are present amongst 88% of so-called gastronomic restaurants and 60% of "traditional" restaurants. Faced with a worsening global situation, the Burgundy professionals will, more than ever, continue to offer quality wines, supporting their wines by an increased on-the-ground presence. 2009 VINTAGE: MAGNIFICENT BURGUNDY! In 2009 the vines enjoyed ideal conditions during the entire cycle and most importantly during the maturing phase, when they basked in the sunshine. Sunlight and heat were in abundance throughout August and September, resulting in grapes of extraordinary quality, which was revealed throughout vinification. After this process, the authentic character of this vintage can already be perceived. At the beginning of September, the vines held grapes of perfect maturity with an ideal balance of sugar/acidity/aroma. Right up until the harvest, the summer weather ensured excellent health throughout the vineyard. Vigilance remained high, to monitor the rapid development of the grapes. It was essential to carry out regular maturity checks.
Nevertheless, the wine-growers were able to calmly choose a date for their harvest, depending on the type of wine they wished to create. In this way, each vine could be harvested at the most suitable time. The first tastings have already unveiled wines which reflect the quality of the grapes collected, where each "personality" and each climat is able to express itself elegantly. The White wines A very attractive aromatic profile is already taking shape, although some of the whites are still undergoing alcoholic fermentation. The wines display roundness and depth, with a liveliness that gives them a very nice harmony. This year, more so than in other vintages, each wine is a reflection of its terroir. The Red wines Attractive even to the eye, these wines are a beautiful deep, brilliant red colour. Just as impressive, the aromas of ripe red and black fruits are highlighted by the presence of spicy notes which develop after the bottle is opened. On the palate, it's a feast for all the senses. Right from the attack, the complexity can be perceived in the depth of the wine. Then a nice balance is revealed, sustained by round, silky tannins. On the finish, these rich wines, with a persistent flavour, leave a sensation of fulfilment. The Crémant de Bourgogne Harvested at the very beginning of September, the grapes used for Crémant de Bourgogne already displayed a very high aromatic potential, whilst retaining the acidity necessary for their freshness; both of which can now be detected in the wines. THE 2008 VINTAGE: A LOVELY TURNAROUND FOR BURGUNDY WINES WHICH TESTED THE NERVES OF THE WINE-GROWERS It wasn t until mid-september that the vines were able to take advantage of the return of the fine weather conditions: the sun and the north wind allowed the grapes to reach full maturity before the harvest. Just like in 2007, the work on the vine and the decision to sacrifice a part of the harvest paid off. The meticulous selection process, and the decision for moderate yields, led to a lower-than-average harvest volume, one of the lowest in the last ten years. Nine months after the harvest, the wines, although not all bottled, are already asserting a pleasant character. The white wines are powerful, following in the tradition of the great Burgundy classics, while the reds are well structured, with considerable cellar potential. For white wines: Chablis and Grand Auxerrois The level of maturity at the time of the harvest has resulted in very attractive wines with great balance. The wonderful freshness and minerality underline the great classicism of this vintage which is also characterised by an excellent persistence on the palate. Mâconnais The 2008 vintage includes everything that makes the Mâconnais wines so charming and well-appreciated: an unrivalled fruit quality, roundedness and quality texture. Perfectly balance, their pleasant, drinkable nature makes them extremely attractive. A very nice vintage. Côte Chalonnaise and Côte de Beaune 2008 can already be considered a great vintage Characterised by notes of mature fruits and citrus, the wines have an unusual aromatic richness. Their mouth, strong and full-bodied, with a pleasant freshness, is a model of its kind. For Crémant de Bourgogne: The meteorological conditions were ideal for the production of Crémant de Bourgogne, which is harvested earlier than still wines. In fact, a relatively high level of acidity and a moderate concentration of sugars are necessary to obtain the best from these sparkling wines. There is no doubt about it, 2008 will be a great vintage for Crémant de Bourgogne. For red wines: Côte Chalonnaise and Côte de Beaune The wonderful intensity of the ruby red colour shows the excellent maturity of the grapes of this vintage. On the nose, they stand out by their sincerity, their elegance and their aromatic complexity: scents of red fruits are combined with a few spicy notes and pale tobacco. The palate is both full-bodied and delicate, thanks to the supple tannins. These beautiful wines will be full of surprises. Côte de Nuits Just like the wines of the neighbouring Côte de Beaune, the red Côte de Nuits wines are superbly balanced with an exceptional aromatic quality. Their nose, with an exemplary clarity, contains subtle floral odours, accompanied by very pleasant aromas of kernel fruit and dried fruit. On the mouth, a supple attack and impressive volume, with harmonious, high-quality tannins. Extremely reliable and with an imposing length, this is a sign of a great vintage with a promising future. BURGUNDY OCCASIONS: GRANDMA'S ROAST VEAL
Sundays are just not the same without grandma's roast veal. The casserole dish, the little onions and her succulent roast - golden brown, it melts in the mouth. A red Burgundy is the ideal wine for a family meal and succulent meat. Its aromas of kernel fruits and cherries, specific to Pinot Noir, blend in with a structure of supple, silky tannins. Match this dish with a Bourgogne Hautes-Côtes de Beaune, a Savigny-lès-Beaune or a Chorey-lès-Beaune. For French speakers, visit Burgundy Wine s food and wine pairing site: www.vins-bourgogne.fr / Under Marions-les. CHASSAGNE-MONTRACHET To the south of the Côte de Beaune, Chassagne-Montrachet, along with Puligny, shares the privilege of having in its vineyard the divine Montrachet (pronounce Mon-rachet), a Grand cru which provides the most sought-after dry white wine in the world. But the wines of Chassange reveal many other treasures, including around twenty Premier crus. This large slope is an excellent home for the two Burgundy grape varieties (two thirds Chardonnay and one third Pinot Noir). The white Chassagne-Montrachet wines reveal aromas of hawthorn, acacia, honeysuckle but also verbena and hazelnut. With age they gain notes of honey or ripe pear. Chassagne-Montrachet wines are often mouth-filling and opulent. Their strength makes them a perfect partner for white meats such as poultry. Not to mention fish, they are a perfect match, whether in a spicy couscous or Asian style, in a curry or stir-fry. The Premier crus will easily complement all types of lobster dishes, or even a cooked foie gras. The red wines uncover morello cherries, strawberries, raspberries etc. Sometimes complemented by a few spicy notes. In their youth, firm tannins appear under a delicious flesh, but on maturity they develop a concentrated, flavoursome structure. They work well with quality joints of meat such as grilled or roast lamb. Their aromatic strength balances grilled pork and curried or tandoori chicken. The Premier crus deserve to be served with wildfowl. Two million bottles are produced each year, over a surface of 300 hectares, i.e. 9% of the volume of the villages of the Côte de Beaune. To find out more: see "Appellations" on the site www.burgundy-wines.fr PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN CORTON ANDRE AND THE CHÂTEAU DE SAVIGNY The Maison Corton-André (Aloxe-Corton) has concluded a partnership agreement with the Château de Savigny. This wine merchant has vinified wines from the Château since the 2009 vintage and will sell them (under the Château's name) from 2010. The Domaine du Château de Savigny covers 18 hectares in regional appellations but also in Savigny, Beaune, Volnay, Pommard, Meursault, Auxey-Duresses etc. The full range also includes prestigious Premier Crus: Meursault Genevrières, Pommard Rugiens and Volnay Caillerets. The vines will still be grown by the team from the Château, "following a technical plan defined together", says Benoit Goujon, at the head of the Maison. Corton-André already sells the brands Pierre André and Reine Pédauque with revenues of some 15 million euros. SAINT-VERAN AT THE HEART OF GASTRONOMY Saint-Véran is an appellation in the Mâconnais which does not yet have any Premier Crus, despite the quality of its terroirs. To remedy this historical omission, the ODG (management body) is working on defining its terroirs, with a view to ranking some "climats" as Premier Crus. At the same time, the appellation has got itself new graphic guidelines along with a new logo, top-of-the-range advertising material and a publication intended for wine institutions. In spring 2010, Saint-Véran is also going to undertake a gastronomy partnership, to unveil the full richness of its wines. "We are planning food and wine tastings with a variety of chefs from the region - starred or not. The recipes proposed will be put online on the new website we are going to completely review the structure of the site at the end of this year," says Thierry Nouvel, head of communication at the ODG. "It will be a very user-friendly website, including mini-sites from each producer of the appellation." These mini-sites will allow the professionals to publish their news (fairs, open-days, promotions etc.). 5,000 placemats have also been distributed in restaurants in the Mâconnais region. CREATION OF A NEW DOMAINE: THE DOMAINE DES TERRES DE VELLES At a time when companies are affected by the global economic crisis, the creation of a new domaine is an unexpected piece of good news. Technical manager of Maison Alex Gambal wine (Beaune) since 1999, Fabrice Laronze has left the merchant business to take over a domaine in Auxey-Duresses (Côte de Beaune). The new team harvested the 2009 vintage at this domaine, called Domaine des Terres de Velle, which includes 5 hectares of a few nice appellations: Auxey-Duresses, Monthelie 1er Cru les Duresses, Volnay and Volnay
1er Cru le Ronceret for the reds; Auxey-Duresses, Monthelie, Meursault and Puligny-Montrachet for the whites. They will then make the most of the winter to create their own packaging in line with the philosophy of the domaine. The first bottles will be sold from September 2010. ALBERT BICHOT GOES ORGANIC Albert Bichot (Beaune) is to launch a range of organic wines. The first wines were vinified during the 2009 harvests. The complete range will begin with seven references, covering appellations such as Bourgogne-Hautes Côtes de Nuits, Savigny-lès-Beaune, Gevrey-Chambertin and the Grand cru Charmes-Chambertin. These wines are produced from purchases of organic grapes. The Maison has had its vat rooms in Beaune and Nuits-Saint-Georges authorized to certify its production of organic wine. The management is also considering a total or partial conversion of its own Domaines to organic wine-growing. JEANJEAN MERGES WITH LAROCHE Michel Laroche, one of the largest Chablis brands, is to merge with the Jeanjean group (Saint-Félix-de-Lodez). The draft merger agreement, signed on 22 September 2009, should come into effect by January 2010. The group is anticipating commercial and management synergies to optimize its development. Together, it will represent a total of 1,450 ha of vineyards, with names such as Ogier in Châteauneuf du Pape, Antoine Moueix in Bordeaux, Cazes en Roussillon, etc. The Domaines developed in the new producer countries by Laroche (Chile and South Africa) are also included in the transaction. The new group will generate revenues of around 200 million euros, nearly half of which abroad. Michel Laroche will remain another two years in Chablis to train his successor. He will also be the second shareholder of this new group. MAISON BOISSET TAKES OVER ANTONIN RODET Maison Boisset (Nuits-Saint-Georges), one of Burgundy's leading merchants, officialised its takeover of Antonin Rodet (Mercurey) at the beginning of October. It is one of the spearheads of the Côte Chalonnaise which will thus come under the control of Boisset. Present across Burgundy, via its different brands, Maison Boisset was missing only one reference of the Côte Chalonnaise. Maison Rodet operates a vineyard of around one hundred hectares, including symbolic properties such as the Château de Rully and the Château de Mercey (Mercurey). It also owns vines in Nuits-Saint-Georges. The former shareholder of Rodet, the holding Sequana capital, had been trying to withdraw for some time. COOKERY WORKSHOP AT CHATEAU DE LA CREE Château de la Crée (Santenay) is starting cookery lessons for groups of 8 to 12 persons. With the help of chef Thomas Le Courbe, the participants will create a starter, main course and a dessert. They will then taste their creation accompanied by wines of the Château. The Domaine du Château de la Crée covers 9 hectares of vines and 7 villages of the Côte de Beaune. These cookery lessons take place twice a month. PUBLICATION: HOSPICES DE BEAUNE, THE SAGA OF A 'WINE MAKING HOSPITAL' What are the origins of the Domaine des Hospices de Beaune? How do the winegrowers work at this Domaine which has such an exceptional status? What are the stories behind the wine sale? From the birth of a new vintage to the known and unknown workings of the marketing of these wines, including a precise description of the character of each cuvée, Laurent Gotti, deputy editor-in-chief of the review "Bourgogne Aujourd'hui" talks about the symbolic and passionate world of Burgundy wines. A work illustrated with photos by Thierry Gaudillère, in French only. "Hospices de Beaune: La Saga d'un Hôpital-Vigneron" - Editions Féret. 'INFOSAVEUR' CARDS "Educational, fun and simple" - this is how the InfoSaveur cards are described. They detail the main stages of tasting (visual, olfactory and flavour) and give precise, understandable words for the sensations perceived. Finally, examples of appellations allow you to link these sensations to the wines of each main vineyard in Burgundy. The back of the card is in English. Published by ICM (Dijon), they were created in partnership with the Burgundy Wine School (Beaune). CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEA Would you like to learn to locate the best-known Appellations and Climats of the Côte de Nuits in a fun manner? Why not do so with a jigsaw puzzle, which presents the most prestigious appellations from Nuits-Saint-Georges to Clos de Vougeot, and Vosne-Romanée to Romanée-Conti. This educational 300-piece jigsaw puzzle will help you learn the names of the Appellations and Climats. You will also
find a geological cross-section and the ranking of the different appellations. The box set includes the jigsaw, a reproduction of the map, a tourist guide and a few other documents. It is already available to buy, for 20 euros. You can order it by writing to pierre.mostacci@orange.fr or by phoning +33 (0)6 70 06 87 63. It is also available at the Nuits-St-Georges tourist information office, at Le Clos de Vougeot, at the Cassissium and at the Imaginarium. CANADA QUEBEC: BENOIT BEAUDET MARKETING DIRECTOR AT THE SOCIETE DES ALCOOLS DU QUEBEC Benoit BEAUDET works in the marketing division of the SAQ, whose main functions are: defining marketing strategies, selecting products and launching marketing/promotional operations in the shops. Mr Beaudet is originally from Burgundy. He moved to Quebec 17 years ago. We interviewed him to find out more about him and to better understand the offering and the consumption of Burgundy wine in Quebec. Today, the SAQ sells some 10,000 products from over 50 different countries, 35% of which are French wines. France is thus the SAQ's leading provider of wine, with sales equivalent to 231,000 boxes of 9 litres over 12 months (from October 2008 to September 2009) of which 127,000 boxes of white wines and 104,000 boxes of red wines. Burgundy thus takes third place amongst sales of French wines, behind Languedoc and Bordeaux. Sales over the same period amounted to 59 million Canadian dollars. Burgundy's share in sales of French wines is 10%. Burgundy particularly stands out from the other regions in the top-of-the-range segment of the SAQ. The proportion of top-of-the-range wines exceeds 33% for Burgundy, although it accounts on average for 20% of wines sold at the SAQ. Three other regions exceed this average by far, Bordeaux, Tuscany and Piedmont. SAQ offers over 500 Burgundy wines in its network of 414 shops, without counting the 470 Burgundy wines sold exclusively in two top-end shops. In 2009, the wines in the general listing rose by 1%. For its part, the SAQ has had very good figures this year, up by around 5% over the last 6 months. In Quebec, the main new competitors of white Burgundies are Californian, Australian and New Zealand wines, particularly for wines such as the Bourgogne Aligoté and the other generic Burgundies. Chablis does not have any direct competitors. Competition amongst red wines is more fierce. The main competitors are wines from Bordeaux, Veneto, Tuscany, Languedoc, Spain and the USA. At the moment Pinot Noir is in fashion, which is beneficial for Burgundy wines. For the Quebec consumer, Burgundy wine enjoys an excellent reputation: it is a vineyard renowned for its name and its quality. It is held in high esteem by wine lovers looking for great wines for their cellars. There are also those who consume Burgundy wine on a more occasional basis: for a special event or to treat themselves. They are particularly loyal consumers who appreciate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The Quebec consumer is exposed to a selection of wines from all over the world, most of which provide information on the grape variety. He is less used to a classification of regions as exists for Burgundy. Wine consumption is constantly increasing in Quebec, from 15 litres per habitant in 2000 to 20 litres in 2007. Over the last few years, the people of Quebec have adopted a "Mediterranean" culture, favouring wine consumption during meals, for different occasions during the week. This lifestyle, favoured by the people of Quebec, is continuing in the current economic context (which is less pronounced in Quebec) and explains the importance that the Quebec consumer places on food and wine pairing. The average price of wine remains stable at just under fourteen dollars per bottle. THE BURGUNDY ODYSSEY: ADVICE FOR WINE TOURISM DURING THE ST VINCENT TOURNANTE FESTIVAL IN CHASSAGNE-MONTRACHET Make the most of this event to discover other touristy curiosities and to familiarize yourself with some of the terroirs of the Côte de Beaune appellations. Chassagne-Montrachet is one of the five villages which give the "Côte des Blancs" its universal prestige, particularly thanks to the Grand Cru "Le Montrachet". But before being a wine, this term indicated a mountain that you can climb by foot. It is said that the name comes from the fact that it is a particularly bare place. It was initially called the "Mont Chauve" (the bald mountain) or the "Mont Rachaz" (shaven mountain), a name which was transformed over the years to "Montrachet". At its peak you will also find a wonderful view across all the vines of the Côte de Beaune. You can also see the quarry just behind the village. In fact, Chassagne-Montrachet is also renowned for the exploitation of beige and pink marble. Heading back down towards the town hall, you will find an impressive wine shop, the Caveau de Chassagne (Tel. + 33 (0)3 80 21 38 13) where you can taste wines from local producers. Further on, the Château de Chassagne-Montrachet welcomes you in its cellars, which date from the XI and XIV centuries. And why not end your trip with a little bike tour on the "Véloroute des Grands Crus" cycle route, where you can get a closer look at the vines of Bâtard-Montrachet, Criots-Bâtard-Montrachet and Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet For accommodation, you can stay with the wine-growers who are members of the "De Vignes en Caves" hospitality charter! Here are a few addresses near Chassagne-Montrachet: Accommodation in chambre d hôtes: Château de Chassagne-Montrachet 5 rue du Château 21190 CHASSAGNE-MONTRACHET Tel. + 33 (0)3 80 21 98 57
E-mail: contact@michelpicard.com www.michelpicard.com Domaine Rocault François and Blandine - Contact: Mme Rocault Blandine Orches 21340 BAUBIGNY Tel. + 33 (0)3 80 21 78 72 E-mail: frocault@numeo.fr http://www.bourgogne-rocault.com Accommodation in gîtes: Domaine Girardin Jacques - Contact: Mme GIRARDIN Valérie 13 rue de Narosse 21590 SANTENAY Tel. + 33 (0)3 80 20 60 12 E-mail: jacques.girardin@wanadoo.fr Domaine Shaps & Roucher Sarrazin - Contact: Mme ROUCHER SARRAZIN Laure 7 rue des Forges 21190 MEURSAULT Tel. + 33 (0)3 80 21 26 31 E-mail: infos@shaps.rouchersarrazin.fr www.shaps-rouchersarrazin.com Domaine Darviot Simard Bertrand - Contact: M DARVIOT Bertrand 17 rue de la Velle 21190 MEURSAULT Tel. + 33 (0)3 80 21 22 83 www.darviot.com For more information, see our wine tourism section: www.burgundy-wines-tourism.fr FRANCE - HOSPICES DE BEAUNE: GOOD SPIRITS AND GOOD OMENS With a final increase of 20.3% of the average price per unit, the Hospices de Beaune auction on 15 November proved all the forecasts wrong! The buyers bitterly fought to buy themselves one or more of the 44 cuvées of this prestigious domaine. The 2009 vintage thus showed its broad powers of attraction. The high quality of this vintage in Burgundy is already known by professionals and wine lovers throughout the world. The opening up of the auction to a large audience, in 2005, with the possibility to buy one single bottle, has also contributed to pushing up the prices. This success is good news against the somewhat gloomy context for wine sales. The economic crisis has hit the whole world and vineyards across the globe are suffering. The results recorded during this 149th Hospices de Beaune auction are a sign of the confidence in Burgundy. They should encourage optimism. This vintage should succeed in giving the market a much-needed boost, even though Burgundy has a lot of assets up its sleeve. In fact, beyond the effects of the new vintage and the fluctuating global economy, Burgundy's power of attraction is still intact, as demonstrated by the attendance of the press during this professional and festive weekend. Both French and international press were widely present during this event, with over 150 journalists from some thirty countries. The result of this 149th wine auction is a sign of confidence and interest in Burgundy. But let's not forget that this auction is also an act of generosity. The special "Pièce des Présidents" wine barrel was bought for 90,000 by a group of Burgundy wine merchants, for the benefit of three associations (La Fondation Motrice, Les Restos du Cœur and La Congrégation des Sœurs Hospitalières). The Presidents, Andréa Casiraghi, Patrick Bruel and Sister Marie-Emmanuel, led the event in good spirits, even singing and getting the audience to join in. An unforgettable event! FRANCE - BURGUNDY AND FLAVOURS OF THE WORLD: FOR THE PLEASURE OF FRENCH WINE WAITERS The year of the wine waiter came to an end in Burgundy on Sunday 22 November, with a successful festive evening. Some 150 members of the French wine waiters' union (UDSF) from all over France met for their annual general assembly and were welcomed at Beaune Bastion for a gala dinner organised by the Burgundy Wine Board (BIVB). On this occasion, the names of the winners of the "Burgundy and Flavours of the World" wine waiters competition, organised by the BIVB, were revealed. Caroline Furstoss, wine waitress, and Julien Gastaud, Head chef of the restaurant Apicius (Paris 8th
arrondissement) brilliantly won the final organised last September in Paris, thanks to the following recipe: "John Dory from Ceylon, risotto of coral lentils. Okra with a hint of curry". This dish was accompanied by a Mâcon-Cruzille from the domaine Guillot-Broux (Cruzille). The competition involved combining an international recipe with a Burgundy wine (at a price below 30 at the table) to show the extent to which Burgundy wines can be adapted to modern tastes for exotic flavours, something which is little admitted in France. The two winners won an extraordinary and much-envied prize: a round-the-world trip with five stops in the world's leading restaurants. The journey will end in Burgundy at Lameloise, a Michelin 3-star restaurant (Chagny). UK - DISCOVER THE ORIGIN: YEAR 2 Bolstered by the success achieved over the last year, the "Discover the Origin" operation is continuing in the UK. This second year got off to a flying start with the London Wine Show last October, an event intended for British food and wine-lovers. Visitors were able to discover the products on the stands or attend master classes or guided tastings. It was also the opportunity to promote the common quality label for these products: Protected Designation of Origin. Around twenty training seminars for the trade are also scheduled for this second season. They will be held in various towns throughout the country during the first half of 2010. The competitions organised for hotel schools, chefs and wine waiters, wine shops and fine food shops will also be held again. Similarly, the press relations programme will continue, with "advertorials". On the web, "Discover the Origin" news can be followed on the website (www.discovertheorigin.co.uk). Educational videos on wine tasting will be available online soon. Created to last 3 years, for specific target audiences, the "Discover the Origin" operation will considerably increase the reputation of the products concerned: Burgundy wines, Porto and Douro Valley wines (Portugal), Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and Parma ham (Italy) and the Protected Designation of Origin label. A DEDICATED WEBSITE FOR THE OFFICIAL EDUCATORS OF BURGUNDY WINES Since 2008, the BIVB has been developing its networks of educators in France and abroad. Over the last two years it has accredited some thirty trainers in France, USA, Canada, Ireland, UK and Singapore. After coming to Burgundy to perfect their knowledge and receive their diploma during an intensive training course at the Burgundy Wine School, they now have their own dedicated website. Here, they can not only find out about the programmes and educational tools developed in Burgundy, but exchange in a forum and keep themselves informed, day by day, of Burgundy news. INTERNET DO YOU SPEAK ENGLISH? THE PROFESSIONAL AREA OF THE WEBSITE IS NOW ONLINE! Burgundy is multi-lingual and can prove it! The English version of the site www.burgundy-wines.fr is getting more and more complete! Intended for Burgundy wine lovers, this English-language website is your reference in terms of Burgundy wines! It is full of essential, practical and comprehensive information on the Burgundy universe. You can use it for inspiration on Burgundy wines, to prepare a trip or organise a wine tasting session using the appellation sheets. Not forgetting the boutique which provides you with maps, brochures and other useful tools. For the trade, importers, wine waiters, wine shop owners etc., there is a dedicated area providing you with the diary of Burgundy wine activities on your market, the latest news, what's going on in the vineyard, etc. Follow the track to the great Burgundy wines on www.burgundy-wines.fr, Trade Website! WINE TOURISM: PUBLICATION OF THE 2010 'BOURGOGNES EN FETE' GUIDE AND THE 'BURGUNDY WINE ROUTE MAP' These essential, practical and complementary guides published by the Burgundy Wine Board (BIVB), are now available for a Burgundy-inspired 2010. "Bourgognes en Fête" is a bilingual (French-English) bible of wine festivals, including some 90 events from Chablis to Mâcon. This document, which includes pictograms, lists the information per season and uses colour codes and photos to make it extremely clear, also allows the visitor to select events in chronological order. All these events are listed under the diary of the website www.burgundy-wines.fr. The BIVB has also recently published its "Burgundy wine route map": vineyards, key sites, itineraries etc. are listed on the back of a road map of the region. The front of the map shows the 273 producers who have signed the De Vignes en Caves" visitors' charter, whereby wine growers, caves cooperatives and merchants opening their cellars to the public promise to welcome them under good conditions. Regular monitoring of these professionals ensures that the charter is respected. These two documents are available free of charge on the BIVB Shop at their website www.burgundy-wines.fr as well as from tourist information offices, regional and departmental tourist committees, hotels and campsites.
14 JANUARY 2010: DON'T MISS THE BURGUNDY WINE TASTING AT LORD'S IN LONDON 96 Burgundy wine growers and merchants will welcome the British press and trade (restaurateurs, importers, wholesalers etc.) on 14 January 2010 for the "Terroirs & Signatures de Bourgogne" tasting in London. It will be the opportunity for the UK market to appreciate the full quality of the last two vintages and to rediscover the Burgundy wine growers and merchants. Around 300 visitors are expected. If they wish, journalists will be able to attend special interviews and tastings with representatives of Burgundy. All the information on this event will be available on this site: www.burgundytasting-uk.fr 20 JANUARY 2010 - SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: BURGUNDY IN ACTION Sustainable development, a veritable societal challenge, is at the heart of the Burgundy wine industry's concerns. In 20 years, the vineyard has integrated the various technological developments in the wine world, whilst asserting and retaining its traditional values. In the face of this future challenge, the Burgundy Wine Board (BIVB) is organising, on 20 January 2010 at the Palais des Congrès in Beaune, a seminar entitled "Should Burgundy wines become a reference in terms of sustainable development?". Experts will present the challenges of sustainable development for the wine industry and will participate, along with Burgundy professionals, in a round table. The aim will be to find areas of work, which combine economic development and sustainable development. 30 AND 31 JANUARY 2010 - SAINT-VINCENT FESTIVAL 2010: CHASSAGNE-MONTRACHET After buying a tasting pack for 15 (one glass and 6 tasting coupons), visitors will be able to taste a white wine created together by the wine growers and red wines from the various producers of the village. Various events on the theme of "wine aromas" will take place in the streets throughout the weekend. A large banquet is planned for the Saturday night, by reservation only. For further information, see www.saint-vincent-2010.com 8-12 FEBRUARY 2010: DON'T MISS THE "TERROIRS & SIGNATURES DE BOURGOGNE" IN CANADA AND THE USA Come to talk with the Burgundy exhibitors or their representatives on the market, who will be pleased to present the diversity of their appellations on the occasion of the "Terroirs & Signatures de Bourgogne" tastings, organised by the BIVB. In 2010, the BIVB and the domaines and merchants of Burgundy will be present on 8 February in Calgary, 10 February in San Francisco and 12 February in Los Angeles. For each of these events, in addition to the tasting, training seminars will be offered so that you can find out about or enhance your knowledge of Burgundy wines. Special interviews and tastings will also be organised for the press, with Burgundy spokespeople. These events are reserved for the trade and the press. For further information: export@bivb.com 22 TO 27 MARCH 2010 THE 'GRANDS JOURS DE BOURGOGNE' 10TH EDITION, YOUR NEXT MEETING WITH BURGUNDY WINES IN THE HEART OF THEIR TERROIRS Created in 1992, the Grands Jours de Bourgogne takes place every two years in March, bringing together journalists and the trade from all over the world, not in a large, impersonal room, but in the heart of the vineyard. For a whole week they are invited to cover Burgundy for 15 wine-tasting sessions from Chablis/Grand Auxerrois (Monday) to the Côte de Beaune (Friday), including the Côte de Nuits (Tuesday), the Mâconnais (Wednesday) and the Côte Chalonnaise (Thursday). This system seems to please everyone, providing the possibility to discover over 10,000 wines and to meet over 1,000 Burgundy wine-growers, merchants and caves cooperative in Burgundy. On the occasion of the 10th anniversary, the organisers wanted to highlight the festive dimension of the event to surprise visitors, making it an unforgettable occasion! On the agenda, events, exhibitions, conferences, workshops, evenings To mark this event, the Burgundy Wine Board is preparing a special version of its now traditional Wednesday evening Bourgogne et Saveurs du Monde Burgundy and Flavours of the World. On this occasion, 10 Burgundy chefs will be invited to create dishes with international flavours, each dish including an ingredient from Burgundy. Wine waiters will pair these dishes with Burgundy wines. Guests will discover that Burgundy wines are real travellers, and can adapt to flavours from around the world, as well, of course, with French gastronomy. The evening will end in a unique prize, prepared in partnership with these same chefs, which will be awarded to all the attendees of the Grands Jours de Bourgogne. Sign up for this event on: www.grands-jours-bourgogne.com. 17-28 MAY 2010: MEET BURGUNDY IN ASIA From 17 to 28 May 2010, Burgundy wine growers and merchants will be pleased to welcome you at the tastings organised in Tokyo, Seoul and Hong Kong, for VINEXPO. Also on the agenda are training seminars and press meetings. For further information: export@bivb.com BURGUNDY WINE SCHOOL: SPECIAL TRAINING COURSE DIARY 2ND HALF 2009 (Unless otherwise stated, all courses take place in Beaune) Full details of training course and gift ideas can be found at: www.ecoledesvins-bourgogne.com
6 February, 6 March, 20 March, 3 April, 24 April, 22 May, 12 June, 26 June, 9 July, 24 July: The Basics (1/2 day 9.30am to 12.15pm) 6 February, 6 March, 20 March: Tasting day (1 day 9.30am to 5.45pm) 3 April, 24 April, 22 May, 12 June, 26 June, 9 July, 24 July: Discovery Days (9.30am to 5.45pm) 3 and 4 April, 22 and 23 May, 26 and 27 June: Wine tasting weekend 12 and 13 April, 3 and 4 May: Tasting training Monday 17 to Wednesday 19 May: Burgundy in depth Monday 14 to Wednesday 16 June: Amateur taster s certificate