Burgundy

The Burgundy region of France is a region steeped in history and culture and until the latter part of the 18th century was not even part of the country of France, but rather a powerful Dukedom. However, it is now not only a part of the country, but one of the main wine producing regions in France. Known for both it's red and white wines from pinot noir and chardonnay grapes (though other grapes grow in this region as well.) this area is known for producing some of the best and most expensive wines in the world.

The Cote d'Or is where the most prized Burgundies are found. This region has such a high reputation for producing quality wines in very limited qualities that the wines of this region are extremely high priced. In fact, many of the Burgundies found here command some of the highest wine prices in the world. The Burgundy vineyards are a narrow strip of land that run from the capital city of Dijon south to the Saone plain.

However, as wonderful and rare as the wines produced in this area are Burgundy has much more to offer than just expensive vino.

The capital city of Dijon has a beautiful historical center complete with narrow streets and beautiful honey colored stone buildings and is one of the many beautiful cities or villages to visit in the area. If one takes the time to travel around the region you will see awe inspiring architecture, beautiful monuments, and some of the most beautiful countryside in the world. One of the most beautiful cities to visit is Autun, a small walled city in Burgundy. When viewed from a distance this city is both quaint and picturesque.

One must see sight on any visit to the Burgundy region of France is the Burgundy canal. This canal took two centuries to construct and changed the entire area turning Burgundy from a region of rural farming communities into a major area connecting the North of Europe to the Mediterranean sea. The canal is a masterpiece of locks that rise like staircases and gently winding curves that is truly a sight to behold.

The Catholic Church also played a major role in this region's history and development as can be seen by visiting some of the ancient monasteries scattered about the region. But it is the vineyards that draw many visitors to this region each year. These vineyards stretch for miles and many of the wine making processes follow the old tradition of oak barrels and years of aging in cool ancient cellars until the wine is "just right."

This area is also known for its exceptional cheeses and fine cuisine, which is only enhanced by the flavorful wine of the region. And the countryside is alive with many colorful flowers that dazzle the eye of tourists to the area.

Life in the Burgundy region of France is relaxed and slow paced making it the perfect place to vacation and get away from it all. If you can't visit this beautiful area in person visit merandowine.com and visit it from the comfort of your own home. It truly is a beautiful area with many sites to see and some of the finest food and wine in the world to enjoy.