Coat of arms of the second Duchy of Burgundy and later of the French province of Burgundy

The production of wine begun in Burgundy when the Roman invaded the region. Later, during the sixth century one of the nearby kings gave his vineyards to the church. At the time of the French Revolution most of the best Burgundy wines where produced by monasteries.

During the Middle Ages, Burgundy was the seat of some of the most important Western churches and monasteries, among them Cluny, Citeaux, and Vézelay.

Monks maintained vineyards and, more important, wine making knowledge and skills during that often turbulent period.

Monasteries had the resources, security, and motivation to produce a steady supply of wine for both celebrating mass and generating income.

During this time the best vineyards were owned by the monasteries and their wine was considered to be superior. Over time the nobility acquired extensive vineyards.