We visited Francois Bertheau for the first time to taste the 2015s and it was a truly memorable visit. This is one of those estates where the understated simplicity of the domaine and cellars stand in juxtaposition against the refinement and finesse of the wines. This is a utilitarian set up but the result is a set of wines that are truly top class: cerebral, pure and elegant.
As in all great domaines, the success is founded on lots of hard work in the vineyard. After the grapes are picked, Francois is very hands off. He does not rack the wines very often and uses a limited amount of new oak. The Bertheau wines develop slowly in the barrel, fulfilling the promise of all the good work in the vineyard and reflecting the success of Francois’ sympathetic approach. Like all of the best winemakers, Francois does not imprint himself too much on the wines, simply making the right decisions at the right times.
The result is a set of wines which exemplify the character of Chambolle-Musigny. Pristine, pure fruit, stunning aromatics and delicate textures highlighted by clean, fresh acidity which gives the wines presence and length. Sublime but never showy.
The holdings at Bertheau are enviable – including Permier Cru Amoureuses and Grand Cru Bonnes Maresm – but the quality is clear across the range; these wines perfectly capture the essence of each site from Chambolle villages to Bonnes Mares. We are delighted to be offering these for the first time.
Domaine Bertheau, Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru 2015
Bertheau’s Premier Cru blend is comprised of parcels from Baudes, Groseilles, Gruenchers and Noirots. This is a very impressive collection of Chambolle vineyard. Bertheau harvests and vinifies these parcels together to bring a tremendous amount of nuance and complexity to this stunning cuvée. The 2015 is very perfumed and startlingly full of fresh red fruit and flowers. Clean and bright with delicacy and understated complexity, this is classic Chambolle. Drink 2018-2027
£295 per six bottles in bond
Domaine Bertheau, Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Charmes 2015
The 2015 Les Charmes is absolutely beautiful, wonderfully sweet fruited with a lifted, highly complex perfume. There are ripe notes of cherry, raspberry and plum, as well as the touch of tertiary aromas which suggest the complexity to come with age. There is a remarkable sense of clarity to this Charmes, a natural balance and harmony. This is a great example of the flowing Bertheau style. Drink 2018-2030
£420 per six bottles in bond
Domaine Bertheau, Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Amoureuses 2015
Les Amoureuses is well established as the best Premier Cru in Chambolle, and certainly with good reason. The best examples have Grand Cru weight, depth and complexity and the best Amoureuses bring together the different shades and nuances of Chambolle. The 2015 is wonderfully decadent and deep yet ethereal with a distinct, complex and soaring perfume. All at once brooding, broad and aerian. A wine of contrast and staggering complexity. Exceptional. Drink 2019 - 2035
£995 per six bottles in bond
Domaine Bertheau, Bonnes Mares Grand Cru 2015
This small parcel of Bonnes Mares (0.34 hectares) is on red soils which tend to give the more muscular and deep expressions of the vineyard. This 2015 certainly does not disappoint, with its structure that frames the core juicy, dark fruit. A beautifully sweet and inviting palate, which has a lift and a hint of wildness to it which reflects Francois’ hands off approach. Refined but powerful tannins provide the support for the long term. Drink 2019 - 2035
£1,095 per six bottles in bond