Join esteemed wine critics Jancis Robinson, a Master of Wine and Financial Times correspondent, and Hugh Johnson, a renowned wine author, as they dive into the rich rivalry between Burgundy and Bordeaux. They discuss the unique qualities and histories of these iconic wine regions, sharing personal anecdotes and the complexities of tasting. From Bordeaux's recent struggles to Burgundy's elegance, their engaging banter uncovers the contrasting characteristics and cultural significance that make these wines beloved among enthusiasts.
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Early Wine Experience
Michel Roux Jr. developed an early appreciation for wine through childhood experiences.
At age seven, he tasted Chateau d'Yquem, describing it as "the finest cough syrup."
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Burgundy Love
Jancis Robinson's love for wine began with a Chambol Musigny Les Amoureuses 1959 at Oxford.
This experience revealed wine's history, geography, and personality.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Wine's Diversity
Hugh Johnson discovered wine's diversity through two contrasting wines from the same hillside.
This sparked his curiosity and led to co-authoring The World Atlas of Wine.
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The Oxford Companion to Wine is an encyclopedic work edited by Jancis Robinson, Julia Harding, and Tara Q Thomas. The fifth edition, published in 2023, includes over 4,100 entries, with more than 300 new topics. It covers a wide range of subjects related to wine, including history, geography, science, viticulture, winemaking, and the language of wine. The book is contributed to by over 260 experts from more than 30 countries and is recognized as the most comprehensive and authoritative reference on wine[2][3][4].
The story of wine
Hugh Johnson
Hugh Johnson's "The Story of Wine" is a comprehensive and engaging history of wine, tracing its origins and evolution across different cultures and time periods. The book explores the various aspects of wine, from viticulture and winemaking to wine culture and appreciation. Johnson delves into the historical, social, and economic contexts of wine production and consumption, providing insights into the role of wine in shaping human societies. He also examines the scientific aspects of winemaking, explaining the chemical and biological processes involved in wine production. The book is richly illustrated with photographs and maps, making it a visually appealing and informative read.
Wine grapes
Jancis Robinson
This book provides an in-depth exploration of wine grapes, covering their historical backgrounds, cultivation regions, and the wines they produce. It includes detailed DNA analysis and family trees, making it an indispensable resource for wine enthusiasts and professionals. The book features stunning illustrations from classic ampelography and offers insights into the complex relationships between grape varieties.
World Atlas of Wine
Hugh Johnson
Jancis Robinson
The World Atlas of Wine is a definitive reference work that explores the global wine scene. The eighth edition, co-authored by Hugh Johnson and Jancis Robinson, includes 416 pages, 230 maps, and updated information on climate change and financial aspects of wine. It provides detailed insights into wine regions, grape varieties, and production statistics, making it an essential resource for wine enthusiasts.
Hugh Johnson's Pocket Wine Book 2025
Margaret Rand
Hugh Johnson
Hugh Johnson's Pocket Wine Book is an essential reference for wine enthusiasts, offering detailed insights into grape varieties, local specialties, and wine-food pairings. The book covers thousands of growers from around the world and includes special supplements on notable grapes like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. It is now in its 48th year of publication and remains the most comprehensive annual guide to wine.
Among wine lovers, there is no greater divide than that between Burgundy and Bordeaux. These are the world’s most celebrated wine regions. What separates them and why the great rivalry? Back in 2015 we invited two of the UK's top wine critics, Jancis Robinson and Hugh Johnson, to debate the issue. Chairing the event was Michelin-starred chef and restauranteur Michel Roux Jr.
We’d love to hear your feedback and what you think we should talk about next, who we should have on and what our future debates should be.
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