2023 Burgundy: Unexpected Delights in Every Sip

You won’t believe the quality of 2023 Burgundy wines! Dive into this vintage’s surprising nuances and discover which bottles to seek out.

A Year of Surprises in Burgundy

When we think of Burgundy, we often picture timeless elegance in every glass. But the 2023 vintage has thrown us a curveball, presenting a delightful yet unpredictable journey for wine lovers. With an abundance of fruit due to a bounteous crop, the character of this year’s wines is as varied as the weather that shaped them. I found myself captivated by the whites, which, unlike their red counterparts, truly shine with a vibrant complexity.

The Whites: A Symphony of Flavors

The 2023 white Burgundies are nothing short of mesmerizing. From citrus to tropical notes, these wines are vibrant and juicy. As I swirled my glass, I was amazed at how much character emerged—each sip told a story from the sun-soaked vineyards. Some producers have crafted opulent wines that reach an impressive 14.5% ABV without feeling heavy. It’s fascinating how even within this warmth, many wines maintain brightness and acidity that keep your palate refreshed.

• Ripe and supple with medium-full body
• Aromatics evolving beautifully over time
• Diverse profiles ranging from glossy to exotic

Reds: Charm Meets Complexity

In contrast to the whites, the reds from 2023 offer a mixed bag. While some express ripe fruit characteristics like morello cherry, others lean into an overripe profile that can feel cloying. There’s a gentle charm in many offerings—perfect for immediate enjoyment—but some may lack the depth and structure we expect from high-quality Burgundy.

• Notable expressions of bright summer fruits
• Accessible after just one year in barrel
• Potential for some cuvées to feel diluted

Aging Potential: When to Open?

With so much variability in both colors this year, knowing when to enjoy these bottles becomes essential. For whites, I recommend waiting longer; they tend to reward patience as they develop complexity over time. Village-level reds can be opened sooner; perhaps by late 2026 they will start showing their best selves while premier crus may require until late 2027.

The Vintage’s Intriguing Landscape

As we explore this unique vintage further, it’s crucial to note that producers have been navigating unprecedented conditions—from intense heatwaves to rain during harvest. These environmental factors have led many winemakers to adjust their traditional practices significantly.

This unpredictability gives rise not only to fascinating discussions but also opportunities for discovery at every tasting table you visit! Whether you’re drawn towards the lush whites or charming reds of 2023 Burgundy, there’s no doubt you’ll find something memorable.

Photo by bruce mars on Unsplash