2022 Francois Bertheau - Chambolle Musigny 1er Cru (750ml)

François Bertheau took over this small Chambolle-Musigny estate from his father, Pierre, in 2003, continuing a family tradition that stretches back five generations. Alongside a village wine and single-vineyard bottlings of Les Charmes, Les Amoureuses, and Bonnes-Mares, Bertheau also produces a blended premier cru drawn from several of the village's finest climats, all made in the same understated, traditional style.

This Chambolle-Musigny Premier Cru blends fruit from several of the village's top climats, including Les Groseilles, Les Gruenchers, Les Noirots, and Les Baudes, all farmed on the classic limestone and clay soils that give Chambolle its trademark finesse. The grapes are hand harvested and vinified with meticulous care, then aged in oak barrels for around eighteen months, with a modest, judicious share of new wood.

The wine shows a striking ruby color, with a nose of fresh red berries, violet, and a subtle earthiness. On the palate it's both ethereal and concentrated, with silky tannins and a persistent, graceful finish that balances power with real delicacy. Give it a few years to open fully, and pair it with roast lamb, veal, or a soft, bloomy-rind cheese.