Domaine Henri Rebourseau : Charmes-Chambertin Grand cru 2021

Tasting characteristics and tips for the Charmes-Chambertin 2021 from Domaine Henri Rebourseau

Tasting

Color

The color reveals an intense, pure red hue.

Nose

The nose unveils delicate red-fruit aromas alongside floral notes of violet. Hints of captivating licorice and spice complete the bouquet, while a subtle mineral dimension anchors the whole in its native terroir.

Palate

The attack is velvety, followed by satiny, delicate tannins that coat the palate. A refined structure unfolds a rich core carried by remarkable minerality. Acidity brings energy to the whole, while the finish lingers elegantly with spicy notes.

Food and wine pairings

This grand cru pairs perfectly with roasted feathered game, lamb in jus, or duckling braised with turnips. It also complements a rib steak with finesse, dishes with black truffle or porcini mushrooms, as well as soft cheeses with a natural rind such as Camembert or Brie.

Serving and cellaring

It is recommended to open the bottle in advance and let it rest. The ideal serving temperature is 18°C. This Charmes-Chambertin 2021 can be enjoyed from around 2029. Its peak is expected between around 2036 and 2046, and the wine will retain its potential until around 2051 and beyond.

The finesse and minerality of a Burgundy grand cru

The estate

Founded in 1782 by Jacques Rebourseau in Gevrey-Chambertin, Domaine Henri Rebourseau now farms 13.5 hectares of vineyards in Burgundy, spread across five grand crus, two premier crus and one village appellation. Since December 2018, the estate has been owned by the Bouygues family, who have kept Jean de Surrel and his sons Bénigne and Louis in charge of technical direction. The domaine has been practicing organic and biodynamic viticulture for three decades, favoring the authentic expression of each Climat. Renowned for its outstanding age-worthy wines, the estate embodies a successful alliance between historic heritage and modernity.

The vineyard

Charmes-Chambertin is one of Gevrey-Chambertin’s nine grand crus, officially recognized on July 31, 1937. The domaine’s plots are located exclusively in Charmes-Chambertin, in its highest sector. The vineyard lies on limestone outcrops covered by shallow soils with an abundance of stones and marl. Facing due east on a moderately sloped hillside, this terroir benefits from a temperate oceanic climate with a slight continental influence. The vines, with an average age of 35 years, yield 25 hectoliters per hectare. These plots have been cultivated for more than 1,400 years, bearing witness to the terroir’s exceptional ancientness.

The vintage

The 2021 growing cycle began slowly before accelerating from May onward. The summer was marked by two heatwaves, creating heat stress on the vines. Harvest began as early as September 10, giving rise to structured, complex wines while preserving freshness and minerality. Despite a smaller crop, the 2021 vintage in Burgundy produced harmonious, elegant reds, with lower alcohol levels than in previous vintages, leaving more room for fruit and plenty of freshness.

Vinification and aging

The Charmes-Chambertin 2021 grapes are chilled as soon as they arrive at the winery. A minimalist approach is favored during fermentation, accompanied by gentle punch-downs. The wine is then aged in French oak barrels for about a year, allowing for delicate micro-oxygenation and the subtle contribution of vanilla and spicy notes that complement the terroir’s intrinsic flavors.

Grape variety

100% Pinot Noir