Chambertin-Clos de Bèze

Clos de Beze

Chambertin-Clos de Bèze is a renowned Grand Cru vineyard located in the Côte de Nuits subregion of the Burgundy wine region in France. It is situated within the commune of Gevrey-Chambertin and is one of the most prestigious vineyards in the area, known for producing some of the finest Pinot Noir wines in the world.

History

The history of Chambertin-Clos de Bèze dates back to the 7th century when it was established by the monks of the Abbey of Bèze. The vineyard has a long and storied history, with its wines being highly prized by royalty and nobility throughout the centuries. The vineyard was officially classified as a Grand Cru in 1937, a testament to its exceptional quality and reputation.

Terroir

The terroir of Chambertin-Clos de Bèze is characterized by its unique combination of climate, soil, and topography. The vineyard is situated on a gentle slope with an ideal south-east exposure, which allows for optimal sunlight and drainage. The soil is predominantly composed of limestone and clay, which contributes to the complexity and structure of the wines produced here.

Wine Characteristics

Wines from Chambertin-Clos de Bèze are known for their depth, power, and elegance. They typically exhibit aromas of dark fruits, such as blackberry and black cherry, along with notes of spice, earth, and floral elements. On the palate, these wines are full-bodied with firm tannins and a long, persistent finish. They have excellent aging potential and can develop additional complexity over several decades.

Viticulture and Winemaking

Viticulture in Chambertin-Clos de Bèze is characterized by meticulous care and attention to detail. The vineyard is planted exclusively with Pinot Noir vines, which are carefully pruned and managed to ensure low yields and high-quality fruit. Harvesting is typically done by hand to ensure that only the best grapes are selected.

In the winery, traditional Burgundian winemaking techniques are employed, including fermentation in open-top vats and aging in oak barrels. The use of new oak is often judicious to avoid overpowering the delicate fruit flavors and to allow the terroir to shine through.

Notable Producers

Several renowned producers own parcels within Chambertin-Clos de Bèze, including Domaine Armand Rousseau, Domaine Ponsot, and Domaine Faiveley. These producers are known for their commitment to quality and their ability to produce wines that reflect the unique characteristics of this exceptional vineyard.

Related Pages

• Burgundy wine
• Gevrey-Chambertin
• Pinot Noir
• Grand Cru
• Côte de Nuits
• Viticulture
• Winemaking