Bourgogne

Burgundy appellation system is one of the oldest and most complex in France, and it is based on the concept of terroir - the unique combination of soil, climate, and geography that gives Burgundy wines their distinct character

The Burgundy appellation system is organized into four main categories, from broadest to most specific:

1. Regional Appellations are the largest and most general appellations, and can include grapes from anywhere within the designated region. Examples include Bourgogne AOC and Crémant de Bourgogne AOC
2. Village Appellations are based on specific villages or towns within the region, and the wines must be made from grapes grown within the designated area. Examples include Gevrey-Chambertin AOC and Meursault AOC
3. Premier Cru Appellations represent specific vineyards or plots of land within the village appellations, and the wines must be made from grapes grown within the designated vineyard. Examples include Chablis Premier Cru AOC and Vosne-Romanée Premier Cru AOC
4. Grand Cru Appellations are the most prestigious and rare appellations, representing the finest vineyards in the region. The wines must be made from grapes grown within the designated vineyard, and only a few vineyards in Burgundy have been classified as Grand Cru. Examples include Chablis Grand Cru AOC and Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru AOC

The Burgundy appellation system is also regulated by strict production standards, which govern everything from the type of grapes that can be used to the aging process. These regulations are enforced by the Institut National des Appellations d'Origine (INAO), which is responsible for protecting the authenticity and quality of Burgundy wines.