The 1980 vintage in Burgundy is a late and long-underestimated year, born of a cool season and difficult ripening, yet whose reds proved, against all expectations, far more accomplished than anticipated. The reds (Pinot Noir) are its standard-bearers: elegant, refined and delicately perfumed, in a light yet distinguished style, with remarkable successes in the Côte de Nuits (Vosne-Romanée, Gevrey-Chambertin), often judged superior to those of the Côte de Beaune. The whites (Chardonnay), more restrained, show a correct and fresh profile, from Meursault to Chablis. The aging potential of the finest reds proved surprising. Today, the most beautiful cuvées from the Côte de Nuits offer a superb maturity. Preceding the difficult 1981, the 1980 remains a delicate red vintage, long underestimated but now rehabilitated.