Vignes et vins de Talant (French edition): 800 Years of History in Burgundy

Vines and Wines of Talant (French Edition): 800 Years of History in Burgundy is a must-read for those passionate about viticultural history. This book traces the rich history of the Talant vineyard, an iconic site in Burgundy, whose current revival reflects a desire to perpetuate a precious heritage.

Like many other urban vineyards, the Talant vineyard has experienced a renaissance marked by the rehabilitation of the ducal cellar in the 1980s, the planting of parcels on the slope of Côte aux Ailles in the 1990s, and the replanting of Époutières in 2015. These initiatives aim to restore Talant's place in Burgundy's viticultural history.

The book draws on unpublished archival documents and traces present in the field to offer a detailed view of the evolution of the Talant vineyard. Founded in 1208 by the Duke of Burgundy Eudes III, the fortified town of Talant housed a viticultural estate of considerable importance. With its 26 hectares of vines, the ducal estate of Talant was one of the four major vineyards supplying wines to the court of Burgundy and those offered as diplomatic gifts to influential figures of the kingdom.

Under the dynasty of the Valois Dukes (1367-1477), Talant experienced a period of exceptional prosperity. However, it was in the 19th century that the vineyard reached its peak, with nearly 190 hectares planted in gamay in 1830 and 75% of Talant households declaring themselves as winemakers. Despite this success, the famous enclosures such as Clos Meunier, Clos Marosse, and Clos Marchand were divided and forgotten, eventually disappearing under modern housing.

The book also highlights a distinctive viticultural production from Talant at the end of the Middle Ages: "galant de Madame," a cooked wine probably flavored with gentian, particularly prized by Duchess Marguerite of Flanders. This specialty, unique in its kind, testifies to the know-how and originality of Talant's winemakers at that time.

Today, Talant stands out again on the viticultural scene with its Bourgogne blanc from the Côte de la Fontaine aux Fées, as well as its crémant and soon a Bourgogne rouge. This book is therefore a valuable testimony to the history and revival of the Talant vineyard, offering a fascinating dive into the deep roots of Burgundian viticulture.

Information:

• Format: Paperback
• EAN13: 9782878442786
• ISBN: 978-2-87844-278-6
• Publisher: Faton
• Publication Date: 16/04/2021
• Number of Pages: 144
• Dimensions: 20.7 x 27.8 x 2 cm
• Weight: 876 g
• Language: French
• Special Mention: OIV 2024 – History Category