2022 Chambertin Clos de Bèze – Domaine Robert Groffier.
Located in Morey-Saint-Denis, Domaine Robert Groffier is one of Burgundy’s most sought-after Pinot Noir producers, with holdings across the region. The Groffier family has meticulously preserved their vineyards for nearly 200 years, maintaining their reputation for excellence across generations. This review focuses on one of their finest Pinot Noirs, the 2022 Grand Cru Chambertin Clos de Bèze, crafted from one of the most esteemed vineyards in Gevrey-Chambertin.
About the Winery
Domaine Robert Groffier has a storied history, dating back to the 19th century, with a reputation solidified in the 1930s under Robert Groffier. Now managed by his grandson, Nicolas Groffier, the estate continues to produce highly esteemed wines from their vineyards, predominantly in Chambolle-Musigny, with holdings in other prestigious crus like Bonnes Mares and Chambertin-Clos de Bèze.
The estate’s commitment to sustainable viticulture, alongside modern refinements such as partial destemming and judicious use of new oak, results in wines that are a harmonious blend of tradition and contemporary sophistication. Their wines, known for complexity, depth, and aging potential, are particularly revered for the expression of Pinot Noir, with the Chambertin-Clos de Bèze being a standout example.
Groffier’s 8 hectares of vineyards, with limestone-rich soils and vines often over 40 years old, are cultivated with meticulous care, ensuring the production of exceptional wines that reflect the purity and character of their terroir. This dedication to both vineyard health and winemaking precision has cemented Domaine Robert Groffier’s position as one of Burgundy’s most respected producers.
About the Wine
The Clos de Bèze Grand Cru, located in Gevrey, is renowned for its exceptional terroir characterized by well-drained limestone and marl soils. Situated on a gentle slope, this vineyard benefits from optimal sun exposure, crucial for the ripening of grapes. The unique combination of soil composition and microclimate contributes to the wine’s complexity, elegance, and depth of flavors.
Groffier’s take on the Clos de Bèze is highly regarded for its elegance, complexity, and aging potential, typically exhibiting aromas of red berries, cherries, violets, and earthy notes, with a nuanced palate that showcases the characteristics of the terroir. The wines stand as a testament to the Groffier family’s dedication to quality.
With only 0.5 hectares of this prestigious vineyard, the Clos de Bèze is made from 100-year-old vines, entirely whole cluster fermented, and aged in new oak. This results in a dense, sweet wine with a complex structure that can be enjoyed immediately but also holds the potential for aging.
This fresh 2022 reveals a deep red color and cool, precise aromas of cherry, rose petal, iron, and smoke. On the palate, it is supple, youthful, and compellingly perfumed, with very pure flavors of black cherry, smoke, and mint. Harmonious acidity gives the wine brilliant definition and class. This wine embodies the elegance, complexity, and depth that Clos de Bèze is celebrated for, ensuring it will be a standout addition to any collection.
We reward this Grand Cru with a 98/100 DWA score.
The wines of Domaine Robert Groffier are available world-wide, through selected partners such as Crurated. For more information on the article, you can read our interview with Nicolas Groffier, including reviews for a selection of his wines, here.
Price: ~€650
Taste date: July 2024
Score: 98/100 DWA Score
Website: Domaine Robert Groffier