Burgundy's Pinot Noir is currently enjoying a period as the world's most fashionable red grape and prices of the region's top wines are now out of most people's reach. However, not all names are as sought after as Domaine de la Romanée Conti and there are still some good values to be had from Burgundy and beyond. That said, expect to pay around £30 as a starting point for anything worthwhile and even then, look for Côte de Beaune appellations such as Santenay or Côte Chalonnaise wines such as those from Givry.. As with all fine wines, Pinot requires good handling so the winemaker's name is especially important. 

Wines are fruity, sometimes with notes of strawberries, sometimes raspberries and sometimes blackberries. Tannins are generally softer than wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon and acidity levels should be quite high when the wine is young - it needs something to help it age and develop in complexity. With age, expect to find earthy undertones with notes of mushroom, forest floor and subtle spice. It can be quite food friendly with duck (including Chinese style), salmon, mushroom dishes, and cheeses. Of course, it is often enjoyed with (and in) dishes such as coq au vin and boeuf bourguignon.