Very Tannic Burgundy - Corked?

[Blue]

Originaly posted this on burgundy, may be more appropriate here though:

I need advice. Although I am originally French, I have only recently began to try to really learn about wine.
A few months ago I decided to introduce my gf to wine. One of the first things that I did was to buy a bottle of Bordeau (Medoc) and a bottle of Burgundy (Appelation Bourgogne, produced in the Cotes de Beaume region, but not carrying that appelation). Each bottle cost me just under $20. Each bottle was from 1996.

What was really surprising was that when we opened the Burgundy, its tanins were much stronger than on any bottle of burgundy I have ever tasted. The wine was definately burgundy, with a nice fruity bouquet, but when tasted it left a slightly bitter residue in my mouth more like a young bordeaux or cab sav. It was not enjoyable at all after the first glass. The Bordeaux was about as expected.

What was funny is that when I asked my gf which she liked better, she answered the Bordeaux as it had less tanins.

What do you think happened. The wine didn't seem corked (I would expect a vinegary taste or the like, but I must say I don't have a great deal of experience with this), but it seemed strange. I must also add that in general most of the burgundy that I have drunk in the past has been in a higher price range.

All advice would be appreciated.

NJ