A Year in Burgundy

A Year in Burgundy is a captivating 2013 documentary directed by seasoned filmmaker David Kennard. The film offers a charismatic illustration of a year deep within the globally treasured Burgundy wine region in France. Unfolding through four spectacular seasons, Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter, the film encapsulates the intricate wine-making process in compelling detail. This is not only a beautiful film for those who appreciate fine wine, but also a visual appeal to those who cherish the longstanding traditions and human passion that fuse to create something extraordinary.

The film unarguably benefits from having the distinguished Martine Saunier as its guide, narrator, and central figure. As someone who has experienced a long romance with wine, her six-decade career in importing wine and her captivating charisma undeniably add gravitas to the film. Martine's role involves guiding the audience through the mysterious complexities of Burgundy wine production while introducing them to the region's rich history, unique landscape, and the noteworthy personalities who contribute mightily to its wine legacy.

A Year in Burgundy portraiture the vividness of Burgundy's beautiful landscapes through ceaseless cycles of the four seasons, emphasizing the wonderful synchronization of human endeavor and natural processes in creating fine wine. The director's choice to film throughout an entire year ensures that audiences witness the labor-intensive detail behind each bottle, from winter pruning to the spring bloom, the summer heat, and the final autumnal harvest.

A compelling feature of the film is its focus on small, family-owned wineries, providing an intimate look at the traditional wine-making process that has shaped the region's reputation. The movie intimately showcases the grit, skill, and determination these families possess, referring to them as 'vignerons,' a French term that encapsulates their roles as both vine growers and winemakers. The unrivaled devotion of these individuals who embody the earth-to-bottle spirit of wine-making is palpably felt, and viewers can't help but admire their respect for the land and decades-long dedication to this craft.

The film sheds light on several wine families. Each family has its unique approach to wine production, underscoring the fascinating diversity within the wine-making community. Through their stories, we come to understand that being a vigneron is far more than just a career; it's a way of life. The viewer bears witness to the practical challenges they tackle - weather storms, pests, market fluctuations - and the heights of joy and satisfaction they reap during a successful harvest and bottling.

In addition to its depiction of the painstaking production process, the movie provides a wealth of information on the complex system of French wine classifications and labeling. From the hierarchy of Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards to the specificities of Village and Regional wines, it skillfully navigates the often-baffling world of wine categorization. This film manages to unravel the Burgundy weave for the novice while offering sufficient depth to intrigue the seasoned enthusiast.

One of the strengths of A Year in Burgundy is its ability to highlight not only the technical side but also the emotional depth of wine-making. Behind every bottle lies a story of perseverance, community, or tradition stretching back generations. The wine isn't just a product made for the market; it's a living legacy that reinforces family bonds and carries forward ancestral traditions. Wine-making is presented as an art form where each vintage tells a story of the year it was born - from the nature of the soil to the weather's temperament and the vignerons work.

The cinematography beautifully captures the transformative quality of seasons. From the frost-kissed silhouettes of the vineyards in the winter to the lush, verdant landscapes in the spring, and finally, to the warm, earthy tones of the autumn harvest, the film provides a visual feast.

With its blend of educational entertainment, A Year in Burgundy is more than a documentary about wine. It is a kaleidoscope of rich history, picturesque locales, the simplicity of rural life, and the complexity of wine, all seen through the discerning eyes of Martine Saunier. If you consider yourself a wine aficionado, a fan of beautifully shot landscapes or simply someone fascinated by food and culture documentaries, A Year in Burgundy is a lovely, informative journey you would want to embark on.