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RESEARCH PRODUCT

The "very loyal pinot": historical trajectory of a mythic grape variety of Burgundy

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Grape varieties began to appear in historical sources at the end of Middle Ages. In Burgundy, early mentions of pinot correspond to an evolution in the way wines were named. From the 14th century onwards, pinot wines have persistently demonstrated to express elements of superior quality. This variety is often offered at expensive prices due to the nature of its rarity, and as a result is commonly reserved explicity for the élites. However, it is suggested that the roles of The Dukes of Burgundy, concerning the promotion of grape varieties, is to be moderated. Therefore, if Philippe le Hardi’s proclamation condemns « the very bad and very disloyal plant called gaamez » then, it is evident that there is not clear and direct explication to pinot. It was not until the 16th century and the works of the first agronomists that the qualities of this grape were truly acknowledged. Since then, pinot has continued to spread through France, as well as reaching international outlets. Countless vineyards like those from Bohemia and Moravia claim to have affiliation over Burgundy’s celebrated grape variety. As a result, one of the ongoing issues in regard to this publication is deciphering between fallacy and historical reality, where pinot participates to Burgundy wines reputation. [Traduction de Candice Medigue]