OVERVIEW OF WINERY/VINEYARD OPERATIONS

FARMING
The initial step in the making of wine is growing grapes. Specific varieties of grapes are used in making premium wines, but any grape with sugar content can be fermented. Successful wine grape farming is dependent upon proper soil and climatic conditions. These particular geographic regions (appellations) can be conducive to the quality of a particular varietal or to wine grapes in general.

The first step in the development of a vineyard is land clearing. This may be as simple as plowing under existing vegetation to removal of trees and leveling the dirt. Vineyards planted on hillsides must be terraced. Rocks may need to be removed. Typical water sources include wells, above ground storage (ponds), or some form of irrigation district supply. The water is then delivered through sprinkler or drip systems.

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Wine is much more than a mere beverage, it is a culture lovingly handed down from generation to generation. While Burgundy has always attached great importance to the situation of a particular vineyard or cru (there are about 100 appellations in all), the winegrower’s expertise remains a crucial element in the complex alchemy which transforms vine into wine.

The label does not attempt to disguise the part played by human endeavour in bringing out the best in the soil. As you travel the length and breadth of Burgundy, a host of wine properties and cellars will help you learn the language of wine. The Burgundian winegrower will make it a point of honour to transmit his passion for wine to you. Listen to him speak of his love of the soil and the vine, of his profession (“calling” would be a better word), of the fruit of his labour which he extracts from the cask using a pipette.