Duroché Charmes Chambertin 2016 Case of 3 btl.

The 2016 Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru, of which there are six and a half barrels this year (two new), has a very pure bouquet with ebullient red fruit that is reminiscent of Denis Bachelet’s Charmes-Chambertin (yes, that good!). The palate is very well balanced with a soft and sensual opening, although for me it does not quite deliver the same complexity as the finest of Pierre Duroché’s premier crus. Perhaps that will develop during the remainder of the barrel maturation? One to watch.

This too is sufficiently reduced that it’s impossible to accurately assess. The sleek, indeed even satin-textured flavors possess a really lovely mid-palate mouthfeel that contrasts somewhat with the borderline rustic finale that really tightens up. The tannins are dense but fine and I very much like the depth and persistence. Moderate patience advised

The Charmes-Chambertin was the one wine from Duroché which was rather closed for business when I tasted it, showing light reduction on the nose, perfectly normal at this stage of élevage, only revealing aromas of smoky red-black fruit, peony and meaty bass notes with aeration. On the palate the wine is full-bodied, supple and velvety, with good depth, concentration and complexity. This is quite a sophisticated, understated Charmes, judiciously framed by a modest application of only 30% new oak. Drinking Window 2024-2040