Jean-Michel Guillon Chambolle-Musigny “Au Village” 2022

Winery Background and History

Domaine Jean-Michel Guillon & Fils, established in 1980 by Jean-Michel Guillon, is located in Gevrey-Chambertin, Burgundy. Originally from Paris and formerly in the aeronautics industry, Guillon transitioned to winemaking with guidance from renowned vintners like Henri Jayer. Over the years, he has built a reputation for producing wines that balance modern techniques with traditional Burgundian practices. The estate focuses on low yields and meticulous vineyard management to craft wines that express the unique terroirs of the Côte de Nuits.

Producer and Winemaker

Jean-Michel Guillon, the proprietor and winemaker, is known for his hands-on approach and dedication to quality. He emphasizes the use of new oak barrels to enhance the structure and complexity of his wines, a technique he adopted under the mentorship of Henri Jayer. Guillon’s philosophy centers on producing wines that are both expressive of their terroir and capable of aging gracefully, ensuring each bottle reflects the character of its specific vineyard site.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The “Au Village” cuvée is sourced from vineyards within the Chambolle-Musigny appellation in the Côte de Nuits sub-region of Burgundy. These vineyards benefit from a continental climate with warm summers and cool winters, ideal for Pinot Noir cultivation. The soils are predominantly limestone and clay, providing excellent drainage and contributing to the wine’s minerality and finesse. The combination of climate and soil imparts a distinctive elegance and aromatic profile to the grapes.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested and undergo rigorous sorting to ensure only the highest quality fruit is used. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by aging in French oak barrels, with a portion being new oak. This approach allows the wine to develop complexity and structure while preserving the purity of the fruit. The aging process typically lasts between 12 to 18 months, depending on the vintage characteristics.

Tasting Notes

The 2022 vintage presents a harmonious blend of red fruit, spice, and floral notes. On the nose, aromas of plum and violet are complemented by subtle oak influences. The palate is medium-bodied with a silky texture, showcasing flavors of red berries and a touch of spice. The wine concludes with a lingering finish, reflecting both elegance and complexity.

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, including roasted duck, veal, and game birds. Its elegance complements dishes like coq au vin, mushroom risotto, and grilled salmon. The wine’s acidity and tannic structure also make it a suitable match for aged cheeses, such as Comté or Brie de Meaux.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and texture, serve this wine at 16–18°C (60–64°F). Decanting for 30 minutes to an hour before serving is recommended to allow the wine to open up and reveal its full bouquet and flavor profile. Use large Burgundy glasses to enhance the tasting experience, as they allow the wine’s aromas to concentrate and its flavors to unfold gracefully.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2022 Chambolle-Musigny “Au Village” possesses the structure and balance to age gracefully for 10–15 years. Proper cellaring conditions—cool, dark, and with consistent temperature—will allow the wine to develop additional complexity and depth over time. As it matures, expect the emergence of tertiary aromas such as truffle, forest floor, and dried fruit, adding to its allure and sophistication.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• 100% Pinot Noir

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

• 13.0%

Scores

• Burghound (Allen Meadows): 88–90