burgundy

Burgundy, or Bourgogne in French, is a historic region in eastern France. It corresponds largely to the former Duchy of Burgundy and today lies within the administrative region of Burgundy-Franche-Comté. The traditional heartland sits along the Saône valley and extends into the Morvan hills, with the departments of Côte-d'Or, Saône-et-Loire and Yonne forming its core. Dijon has long served as its capital and commercial hub.

Historically, the Duchy of Burgundy was a major political power from the 11th through the 15th centuries, ruled by the Valois and later Burgundian dukes, with influence extending into present-day Belgium and the Netherlands. It was absorbed into the French crown after the death of Charles the Bold in 1477, leaving a lasting cultural and architectural legacy.

The region is renowned for viticulture. The Burgundy wine region produces Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, with notable subregions such as the Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune in Côte-d'Or, the Mâconnais in Saône-et-Loire, and Chablis in Yonne. Wine tourism, gastronomy, and historic towns such as Dijon and Beaune are characteristic features.

Burgundy also refers to a color—burgundy—a deep red-purple shade named after the wine. The region’s cuisine, architecture and landscapes contribute to its reputation as a distinct cultural area in France.