Origin and Definition of the Term “Climat”
The term originates from the Ancient Greek word klima, meaning “inclination.” At the time, it did not refer to vineyards, but rather to the idea of a slope or orientation in relation to the sun. The Romans later adopted the term into Latin as climat, preserving this notion of the inclination of the celestial sphere, which was used to describe regions of the sky and, more broadly, different areas of the world according to their position and exposure.
Today, the Climats, vineyards of Burgundy are renowned for their unique character. However, when speaking of a “Climat” de Bourgogne, it does not refer to weather conditions. A Climat is a precisely delimited vineyard parcel with specific geological and climatic characteristics that directly influence the wine produced there.
The Creation of the Climats, vineyards of Burgundy
The origins of the Climats date back to the Middle Ages. The Cistercian monks of Cîteaux Abbey and the Benedictine monks of Cluny Abbey played a major role in their development. Over the centuries, they carefully observed soils, vineyard exposures, and the characteristics of the wines produced in order to identify the finest terroirs. They gradually divided the vineyards according to their specific features, highlighting the close relationship between a place and the wine it produces. This process of observation and classification laid the foundations of the Climats system that still exists today.
The Vineyards of Côte d’Or
Côte d’Or is made up of two major wine-growing areas:Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune. Both feature a remarkable diversity of soils, landscapes, reliefs, and exposures, creating a multitude of microclimates. Limestone, marl, and clay soils all play an essential role in shaping the expression of the wines. Limestone soils are particularly well suited to Chardonnay, while clay-rich soils are generally more favorable to Pinot Noir, providing power, structure, and richness.
It is not only the grape variety that determines a wine’s character, but above all the place where it is grown. This is why two vineyards separated by only a few meters can produce wines with very different aromas, structures, and ageing potential. This diversity creates an exceptional range of wines with unique complexity.
The Climats also help the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) system. Burgundy’s appellation hierarchy is based on the recognized qualities and characteristics of its Climats and lieux-dits, which may be classified as Village, Premier Cru, or Grand Cru appellations.
The Climats also allow winegrowers to fully express their terroir. While soil and climate play a major role in a wine’s identity, the people who craft it are equally important. Winegrowers understand the unique characteristics of each parcel and adapt their practices accordingly. Their expertise reveals the distinct personality, richness, and diversity of every Climat
A Heritage Recognized Worldwide
The Climats are therefore much more than a simple division of the vineyard. They represent an exceptional historical, cultural, and viticultural heritage that has shaped the identity of Burgundy wines for centuries. This uniqueness was officially recognized on July 4, 2015, when the Climats, vineyards of Burgundy were inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List as a cultural landscape. This recognition highlights their outstanding value and their importance in the history of wine
