Charmes-Chambertin

Charmes-Chambertin is one of the most famous Grand Cru vineyards in the Côte de Nuits region of Burgundy, and is also the name of the associated appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) of the wines produced from it. It is situated in the southern area of the Gevrey-Chambertin commune. Pinot noir is by far and away the primary grape grown in Charmes, although as with other Burgundy AOC regulations the wines are permitted up to 15 percent Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc or Pinot Gris as auxiliary grapes, a practice that is barely ever put into practice for the Grand Crus. Charmes has around 30 hectares of vineyard land, making it the largest Grand Cru in Gevrey-Chambertin, although technically this large area constitutes two vineyards: Charmes-Chambertin and Mazoyères-Chambertin. There is very little noticeable difference between the two vineyards however, and more often than not wines produced in Mazoyères will be classified under the Charmes label for increased recognition. The large expanse of the AOC means that wines from Charmes-Chambertin can be quite varied, somewhat diminishing its reputation. However, the best examples are formidable wines, known for their delicate fragrance and their tendency to bring out the best aspects of the Pinot Noir grape, notably the seductively soft fruit notes, which are at their most sublime after around 10 to 20 years.