Faiveley Charmes Chambertin Grand Cru 2021

Winery Background and History

Established in 1825 in Nuits-Saint-Georges, Domaine Faiveley is one of Burgundy’s most esteemed family-owned estates. Spanning over 125 hectares, it boasts significant holdings across the Côte de Nuits, Côte de Beaune, and Côte Chalonnaise. Under the leadership of Erwan Faiveley since 2005, the domaine has harmonized traditional practices with modern techniques, emphasizing sustainable viticulture and precise winemaking to express the unique terroirs of Burgundy.

Producer and Winemaker

Erwan Faiveley, representing the seventh generation, leads the domaine with a vision of producing wines that reflect both tradition and innovation. Collaborating with Technical Director Jérôme Flous, they focus on meticulous vineyard management and minimal intervention in the cellar. Their approach ensures that each wine authentically represents its origin, showcasing purity, elegance, and depth.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru vineyard is situated in the commune of Gevrey-Chambertin, within the Côte de Nuits sub-region of Burgundy. Domaine Faiveley’s parcel covers 0.81 hectares, with vines planted in 1925, 1930, 1959, and 1999. The vineyard features brown soils with approximately 40% clay content, interspersed with lava and iron deposits, and benefits from an eastern exposure. This terroir contributes to the wine’s richness, aromatic finesse, and aging potential. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested and sorted before fermentation. The proportion of de-stemmed grapes and whole clusters varies depending on the vintage. Fermentation occurs in wooden vats with daily punch-downs to extract color, tannins, and aromas. After a 19-day vatting period, the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation. Aging lasts 16 to 18 months in French oak barrels, with 60% new oak and 40% once-used barrels, allowing the wine to develop complexity and structure. 

Tasting Notes

The 2021 Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru exhibits a deep ruby red hue. The nose reveals a rich bouquet of small red fruits, spices, and floral notes. On the palate, it offers juicy strawberries, plump raspberries, and succulent cherries, intertwined with hints of black tea and a touch of forest floor. The wine’s vibrant acidity is balanced by silky smooth tannins, creating a harmonious and elegant profile with a long, lingering finish. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This Grand Cru pairs excellently with rich dishes such as roasted duck, game meats, and beef Wellington. Its robust structure and intricate flavors also complement earthy mushroom risottos and aged cheeses like Comté or Époisses, enhancing the dining experience.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at 14°C to 16°C (57°F to 61°F). Decanting for 1 to 2 hours is recommended to allow the wine to open up and reveal its aromatic complexity. Use large Burgundy glasses to fully appreciate its bouquet and texture.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity. The 2021 vintage has excellent aging potential, expected to evolve gracefully over the next 15 to 25 years, developing greater complexity and depth with time.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Pinot Noir

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13.5%

Scores

• Jancis Robinson: 17/20