The 2023 Burgundy vintage has yielded a wide array of approachable, fruity red wines, as well as lush, rounded whites ideal for early consumption. Notably, the vintage also includes some concentrated options among both colors, making it suitable for cellars. This extensive report, compiled by Charles Curtis MW, stems from tastings of over 1,600 wines across various regions of Burgundy, including the Côte de Nuits, Côte de Beaune, Côte Chalonnaise, and the Mâconnais.
Curtis collaborated with the Burgundy Wine Board (BIVB) and conducted over 100 visits to key domaines in the area, focusing on aspects like weather conditions that impacted wine quality. The tasting process involved analyzing each principal village in the Côte d’Or, alongside a broader examination of the Côte Chalonnaise and Mâconnais. Curtis’s selections reflect a diverse array of producers — from esteemed domaines to new emerging talent — and span multiple price points and wine styles, catering to every Burgundy enthusiast.
The growing season for 2023 began with a warm, damp winter, leading to ideal conditions for budbreak. Budding occurred early, and despite facing potential frost threats, the region saw a successful flowering accompanied by generous yield expectations. However, late July and early August brought about challenging weather that could have hindered ripening; thankfully, a subsequent heatwave helped mature the grapes.
Unlike the 2022 vintage, which displayed consistency across both Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, the 2023 vintage demonstrates a variance in quality influenced by specific villages, grape types, and vineyard practices. The main concerns for winemakers were dilution for red wines and the balance of acidity and alcohol levels in white wines. Producers who adequately thinned their crops were able to cultivate concentrated Pinot Noir, while those who harvested at the right time captured the sun-kissed essence of the late season in their Chardonnay.
This comprehensive report offers curated wine recommendations across categories, ensuring that readers can enhance their collections with optimal selections, top-notch values, and delightful hidden gems from the vintage.