2011 Chambertin
By Domaine Dujac
2011 Chambertin from Domaine Dujac, Côte d'Or, Burgundy
The 2011 Chambertin from Domaine Dujac stands as a beacon of finesse and complexity amidst the backdrop of Burgundy's illustrious terroir. In a year marked by its climatic dichotomy, this specific vintage presents its own narrative through a display of adaptability and exceptional crafting.
The Epitome of Elegant Adaptation
As with many of Burgundy's greatest tales, our story commences with the weather. A precocious bud break heralded an early start in 2011, faced subsequently with episodes of apricity balanced by fresh rains. It is within this context that the vines of Chambertin revealed their resilient nature. Skilfully managed by Domaine Dujac's team, the climatic challenges were met head-on, ushering in a harvest reflective of both the season's trials and the domaine's triumphs.
Capturing the Quintessence of Chambertin
This particular Chambertin encapsulates the essence of its vintage. Poured into the glass, it exudes an almost kaleidoscopic array of aromas: ripe cherries laced with earthy undertones and a whisper of oak-derived spice. On the palate, there's a startling congruence — despite 2011's rigours, one finds a wine positively brimming with vitality. Acidity is pitched perfectly against the softer tannins, creating an equilibrium that speaks to those who appreciate subtlety intertwined with strength.
A Vintage Worthy of Savvy Investment
When we converse about fine wine investments, there’s no overlooking the significance of provenance and vintage magnificence. The 2011 Chambertin from Domaine Dujac embodies an investment opportunity steeped in rarity. The wine’s intricacies are born from a year that demanded virtuosity in vineyard management — and it is this narrative that will resonate robustly within the market.
Layered and complex, yet accessible for present-day enjoyment, this Chambertin offers a harmonious juxtaposition reflective of its year — making it one to cellar with auspicious foresight. Amongst collectors and connoisseurs participating within the investment sphere, an allocation of the 2011 Chambertin from Domaine Dujac truly asserts a prudent stratagem for portfolio diversification and potential value appreciation.
In summation, as we look across charming Burgundy and its pantheon of vintages, there emerges a clear protagonism for wines like this exquisite expression. It serves not only as a sensorial delight but also as a shrewd testament to viticultural resilience and astuteness—it truly is one for the collector’s cellar and investor’s ledger alike.
Market price (GBP)
£21,020.00
12x75cl
Highest score
95
POP score
1401.33
Scores and tasting notes
The 2011 Chambertin Grand Cru comes from two parcels in Chambertin itself and Clos-de-Beze. It has a slightly meaty, introspective bouquet that is beautifully defined, but it is a little sulky at the moment and needs two or three years to open up. The palate is medium-bodied with ripe, juicy tannins on the entry. This is not a heavyweight Chambertin, but very focused with a feminine, silky-smooth finish. Drink 2014-2026. I have been visiting Jeremy and Alec Seysses at Domaine Dujac for several years now, and it is always one of my favorite ports of call. Alec, looking surprisingly chipper for a new dad had taken time off nappy duty to guide me through the 2011s this year. I have to confess that I was concerned by the conspicuous nature of the new oak on both their negociant label wines and the entry Village Crus. I felt that 35% new oak tended to overwhelm the fruit and terroir and occasionally impart drying finishes, which is why my scores are parsimonious here. As I tasted through the range toward the flock of Grand Crus the oak seemed better assimilated, although I would still maintain that the wine is of such quality that the present level of oak risks being superfluous to requirements. All the negociant label wines were bottled before Christmas. Importers: The Sorting Table, Napa, CA; tel. (415) 491-4724; Chambers & Chambers Wine Merchants, San Francisco, CA; tel. (415) 642-5500
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 28 August 2013