We are, according to Douglas Barzelay, co-author of the newly- released and highly-acclaimed Burgundy Vintages – A History from 1845, enjoying a “Golden Age of Burgundy.” The wine has almost certainly attained a qualitative pinnacle; it is the darling of every sommelier and the most coveted prize of every serious collector.

In his presentation to WEC, Barzelay discussed Burgundy’s ascent to this exalted status was far from inevitable and that its continued reign remains insecure. Drawing on a lifetime of experience, Doug offered his analysis of how Burgundy won its crown and why it could still tumble from the heights of its own success.

To elucidate this discussion, Barzelay guided a comparative tasting of classic Burgundies to highlight contrasts between vintages and appellations in the context this journey into both the past and the future.