Domaine Taupenot-Merme : Charmes-Chambertin Grand cru 2018

The complexity and refinement of a Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru

The estate

Domaine Taupenot-Merme was founded in 1963 through the union of Denise Merme and Jean Taupenot, the 7th generation of two Burgundian families whose winemaking history dates back to the 18th century. Based in Morey Saint Denis, the estate has become a benchmark among the great Burgundy wines, thanks to the development of both its terroir and its winemaking methods.

The vineyard

Farmed organically since 2001, the Domaine Taupenot-Merme vineyard covers 13 hectares. Its old vines, which average 35 years of age and reach 60 years on some plots, are spread across iconic Grand Cru and Premier Cru terroirs, as well as village and regional appellations.

The wine

This Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru 2018 from Domaine Taupenot-Merme comes from a 0.57-hectare vineyard on a gentle slope in the upper part of Charmes. Planted on clay-limestone soil composed of marl, the vines are around forty years old and derive mostly from massal selection. They are renowned for the quality and finesse of their grapes.

Vinification and ageing

Harvested by hand at full ripeness, the grapes are carefully transported to the winery to prevent any oxidation or uncontrolled pre-fermentation maceration, before undergoing rigorous sorting. Cold pre-fermentation maceration (10°C) for 8 to 10 days in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by fermentation maceration for 7 to 9 days with manual punch-downs and pump-overs. Manual devatting without pumping, followed by fractional pneumatic pressing at low pressure to extract only the noblest tannins. The press wine is tasted before blending. Barrelling takes place 36 to 48 hours after settling to preserve as much of the fine lees as possible. Ageing on the lees lasts 15 to 18 months in oak barrels (40 to 50% of them new). Bottled without fining or filtration to optimise the natural expression of the terroir.

Blend

The Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru 2018 from Domaine Taupenot-Merme is made from 100% Pinot Noir.

Tasting

Nose

The nose blends fruity fragrances with notes of musk and fur. As the wine evolves over time, delicious liquorice notes emerge.

Palate

The palate of this charming, delicate wine seduces with its structure and refinement.

Food and wine pairing

With its subtle balance of power and finesse, this Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru 2018 from Domaine Taupenot-Merme pairs beautifully with leg of mutton, bœuf bourguignon, hearty stews, coq au vin, game pâtés or strong cheeses, with the exception of blue cheeses.

Serving

For optimal enjoyment in its youth, serve this wine at 14-15°C, opening the bottle 1 hour beforehand and decanting it to release its aromatic expression. As it evolves over time, it can be enjoyed at 16-17°C.

Cellaring

Already approachable, this great Charmes-Chambertin will show more integrated tannins from 2024-2026, but it can also be cellared until 2033-2038 to reveal its full aromatic complexity.