Domaine DUJAC - Gevrey Chambertin 1er Cru - Aux Combottes 2023
Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Aux Combottes 2023 from Domaine Dujac presents itself as a cuvée of rare finesse, nestled among several iconic grand crus of the Côte de Nuits. The old vines rooted in brown calcareous and stony soils produce a Pinot Noir that is both deep and airy, where the terroir expresses itself with astonishing precision. The nose opens with notes of ripe raspberry, Morello cherry, and wild blackberry, highlighted by accents of peony, rose, and a fine touch of sweet spices. On the palate, it reveals a juicy attack, driven by pure and luminous fruit, framed by an elegant acidic structure that lengthens the body. The tannins, initially tight but very fine, structure the wine without hardening it, offering an almost silky texture. The finish, long and vibrant, blends red fruits, fine spices, and a subtle mineral imprint that recalls the position of Aux Combottes at the heart of the finest slopes of Gevrey and Morey.
As usual at Dujac, whole cluster fermentation plays a key role in the wine's profile, bringing energy, aromatic complexity, and an extra freshness. In 2023, this approach highlights floral and spicy notes while preserving great drinkability despite the generous ripeness of the vintage. The palate gains depth with aeration, revealing nuances of cherry pit, delicate licorice, and fine emerging undergrowth notes. The precise aging, in barrels where the new wood is carefully calibrated, refines the texture without masking the character of the terroir or the grape's grain. The wine breathes mastery and elegance, with that impression of contained density typical of the house's best premier crus. Each sip highlights the duality of Aux Combottes: a serious structure supported by fruit of great delicacy.
At the table, Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Aux Combottes 2023 is destined for refined cuisine that respects its finesse as much as its depth. It will pair magnificently with roasted free-range poultry, a lightly seared beef fillet, pink veal with mushrooms, or grilled pigeon, where its silky tannins will find a natural echo. Elaborate vegetable dishes, centered around roasted root vegetables, forest mushrooms, or herb-scented grains, will also highlight its floral dimension and freshness. In its youth, decanting will allow it to fully develop its bouquet and soften the tannic structure. With a few years of aging, it will evolve towards notes of light truffle, dried leaves, blond tobacco, and jammy red fruits without losing its verticality. This is a haute couture premier cru, both precise, sensual, and deeply rooted in its terroir, brilliantly illustrating the refined style of Domaine Dujac.
Grape varieties: Pinot Noir
