RELATIONSHIPS
Same white grape: consider both place and process.
Typical comparison combinations
Burgundy whites
Compare vineyard differences, containers, and contact with lees.
Champagne
Second fermentation in the bottle adds maturation on the lees.
This is a summary of the relationships explained in the main text. For details on grape composition and production conditions, please refer to the main text and official sources. Sources and reference materials
FIELD NOTE 01
Chablis and Côte de Beaune
Chablis and Côte de Beaune are both known for their Chardonnay-based white wines. While comparing the same grape variety allows for site-based distinctions, not all of their differences arise from the vineyard alone.
The containers used for fermentation and maturation also influence a wine’s aromas and texture. Instead of assuming the use of barrels based solely on the region, check how the producer made the wine—this allows you to separate vineyard factors from winemaking choices.
Basis for this section:BIVB | Burgundy Regions and Grape Varieties ↗ ／ BIVB | White Wine Vinification ↗ ／ BIVB | Wine Aging ↗
FIELD NOTE 02
Aging with lees in fermentation vessels
In white Burgundy, pressed juice is fermented in tank or barrel. Even when barrels are used, the influence of wood varies by volume, age, and contact time. Simply stating 'barrel aging' does not mean the conditions for two wines are matched.
The sediment of yeast and other solids that remains after fermentation is called lees. The choice of whether to age the wine on the lees or to perform batonnage (stirring the lees) also affects texture. Knowing, in addition to the variety name, the vessel and the lees treatment makes it easier to understand why Chardonnay has such a wide range of flavors.
Basis for this section:BIVB | White Wine Vinification ↗ ／ BIVB | Wine Aging ↗
FIELD NOTE 03
Secondary fermentation in Champagne
Chardonnay is also one of the main grape varieties of Champagne, along with Pinot Noir and Meunier. Here, after making the base wine, a secondary fermentation takes place in the bottle. The carbon dioxide produced as yeast breaks down sugar is trapped in the bottle, creating bubbles.
When comparing Chablis blanc and Champagne, even though both use Chardonnay, the sparkling process is an added step. You’ll also want to verify if other varieties are blended into the Champagne. The comparison is about reading what the varieties have in common versus what differs in blend or method.
Basis for this section:BIVB | Burgundy Regions and Grape Varieties ↗ ／ Champagne Committee | Grape varieties, method, and labeling FAQ ↗
Cannot be judged by grape variety name alone. Check winemaking and maturation vessels, and the age and duration of barrels with information about each wine.
PAUSE & REFLECT
Check your understanding.
If it says Chardonnay, can you assume it has barrel flavor?
Read the explanation ＋
Cannot be judged by grape variety name alone. Check winemaking and maturation vessels, and the age and duration of barrels with information about each wine.
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Sources and reference materials
These are the reference materials for the main text. For details of production regulations, consult the current documents. For individual wine specifications, refer to materials for the relevant vintage.
- BIVB | Burgundy Regions and Grape Varieties ↗
- BIVB | White Wine Vinification ↗
- BIVB | Wine Aging ↗
- Champagne Committee | Grape varieties, method, and labeling FAQ ↗