Following Jefferson's Burgundy tour
A journalist has followed in the footsteps of founding US president Thomas Jefferson, known as an avid collector of fine wines, by taking a tour of Burgundy just as he did more than 200 years ago.
Writing in the New York Times, Ann Mah described her experiences at the Clos de la Commeraine, a vineyard near Pommard, whose wine "sent Jefferson into raptures" according to legend.
She also found time to visit Domaine Parent, where the former president formed a relationship with advisor Etienne Parent who introduced him to the wines of Meursault, which he would later number among his favourite.
For those considering a similar trip, Ms Mah reports that Burgundy negociant Louis-Fabrice Latour had this advice: "Take the time to discover an appellation, to visit the region.
"Taste the differences between neighboring vineyards. Ask questions. Be curious."
Jefferson is noted for stating that the US could "make as great a variety of wines as are made in Europe, not exactly of the same kinds, but doubtless as good" - a claim many producers in Napa Valley have taken to heart.