Nose

The smell of a wine, including both the AROMA from the grape and the BOUQUET from AGING.

How does a “Burgundy barrel” compare to a “Bordeaux barrel?”

A. Burgundy barrels are slightly smaller than Bordeaux barrels.

B. Burgundy barrels and Bordeaux barrels are the same; but each is known in its own region by that region’s name.

C. Burgundy barrels are generally less toasted than Bordeaux barrels.

D. Burgundy barrels are slightly more round than Bordeaux barrels.

A Burgundy barrel is low and squat, and has a deeper, rounder bilge than a Bordeaux barrel. The deeper bilge is designed to allow the spent yeasts (known as lees) to settle easily. This shape is especially helpful in making white Burgundy (chardonnay) where extended lees contact leads to wines that have a sense of creaminess (important given the high acidity of the wines). A Burgundy barrel is 228 liters in capacity. A Bordeaux barrel is higher and longer than a Burgundy barrel. It is 225 liters in capacity.

“Climate change is happening. The start date of each vintage moves forward by a week per decade. Burgundy won’t be making Pinot Noir in 20 years as it will be too hot; they’ll be making Shiraz and still Pinot production will move to Champagne and England. There is a very real possibility that if the effects of global warming get too severe, Barolos won’t be made from Nebbiolo since it’s such a sensitive variety and needs such specific conditions. Global warming is going to completely re-set the game. Bordeaux is going to have massive problems.”

— Chester Osborn, winemaker, d’Arenberg Winery (Australia) as quoted in The Drinks Business

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