When I started my career in France, I was based in Burgundy, one of the most popular destinations for travellers. It had everything — extraordinary cultural heritage, world-class wines, gastronomic excellence and superb hotels.
When it comes to the wines of Burgundy — they speak for themselves. What many don’t realise, however, is that accessing the most famous names is almost impossible. Burgundy is defined by its tiny producers, and in many cases their wines are sold years in advance. Yet this is where deep regional connections truly matter. We hold the keys to some remarkable domaines where it is still possible to secure a bottle or two and enjoy unforgettable tastings. Just as exciting are the new generation of talented winemakers — up-and-coming producers who are quietly shaping the future of Burgundy and are absolutely worth discovering.
And then there is the gastronomy. Dijon may be famed for its mustard, but Burgundy’s culinary identity goes far beyond that. The region boasts an extraordinary variety of cheeses and a repertoire of generous, deeply traditional dishes: jambon à la Chablisienne, œufs en meurette, escargots, gougères, boeuf bourguignon, coq au vin — hearty, comforting specialities that reflect the soul of the region.
At the same time, a new generation of chefs is reinterpreting this heritage with creativity and precision. Most intriguingly, a handful of Burgundian-Japanese tables are elevating classics such as œufs en meurette into refined, almost artistic expressions — Burgundy’s rustic classics meeting Japanese finesse in the most elegant way. Who would have imagined it?
Culturally, Burgundy is a treasure trove. In the north alone, one finds the Basilica of Vézelay, the serene Abbey of Fontenay, and the Gallo-Roman site of Alésia where in 52BCE Julius Cesar won his final battle againts Gaulish superhero warrior Vercegetorix.
The medieval villages of Noyers-sur-Serein and Flavigny-sur-Ozerain feel suspended in time. The magnificent Hospices de Beaune remains one of France’s most remarkable historic monuments, while in Dijon the gargoyle-covered façade of Notre-Dame (fifty-one in total) never ceases to amaze visitors. And of course, there is the famous owl carved into the church wall; which after centuries of being stroked for good luck, still stands proudly, albeit somewhat worn.
Next, the hotels of course, which are absolutely key in our business. They allowed us to base our clients in comfort and build extraordinary experiences around them.
As time went by, not much changed in Burgundy. The cultural heritage remained as powerful as ever, and the wines were continually outstanding. But the hotel landscape — so essential to us — did not evolve in step with the rising expectations of modern luxury travelers.
There were one or two notable exceptions, with Hôtel Levernois high on my personal list, but overall the region was slowly losing its former glory.
Fast forward to 2026.
For several years, rumours circulated about ambitious new openings. Being deeply connected in the region, I had a clear sense of which projects would come to fruition. One of the most exciting was in the village of Pommard, where Château de la Commaraine was transformed into a five-star luxury property. From the outset, we were involved — from hard-hat visits during the lengthy renovation to collaborating with the commercial team on promotional initiatives. Watching this historic estate reborn has been genuinely inspiring.
Almost simultaneously, Château de Gilly in the Côte de Nuits underwent a remarkable transformation and has reopened as Les Sources de Vougeot, joining the esteemed “Sources de Caudalie” family. Hôtel Levernois has also risen to the challenge, undertaking significant renovations and unveiling an exceptional new spa. Add to this Maison 1896 and Hôtel de Beaune, and Burgundy has once again become a destination that confidently matches its extraordinary wines and heritage with equally compelling places to stay.
For those of us who like me, have always believed in Burgundy’s potential, this renaissance is deeply satisfying and full of promise. Whilst Burgundy remains deeply anchored in tradition, with its vineyards, villages, and heritage unchanged in their authenticity, its gastronomy and hospitality are evolving to meet the expectations of today’s discerning traveler. For me, it is a revival that feels deeply personal: a return to one of the regions that shaped my career, now elevated to a level worthy of its extraordinary heritage.
So should the idea of a refined, gourmet-focused wine experience in one of the most beautiful vineyard regions in the world — complemented by a stay in Burgundy’s newest five-star addresses appeal, look no further…
By Philip Haslett founder of French Promise
