Domaine Humbert Frères Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru 2018

Domaine Humbert Frères is a distinguished family-owned estate in Gevrey-Chambertin, Burgundy, renowned for producing elegant and complex Pinot Noirs from some of the region’s most prestigious sites. The Domaine Humbert Frères Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru 2018 is a standout expression of the domaine’s craftsmanship, coming from one of the eight Grand Cru vineyards of Gevrey-Chambertin. Charmes-Chambertin is known for producing rich, opulent wines with depth and finesse, and the 2018 vintage, a warm and ripe year, has resulted in a wine of great concentration and balance.

The Charmes-Chambertin vineyard features deep clay-limestone soils, which provide the structure and minerality that underpin the wine’s complexity. The Humbert family employs traditional winemaking methods, including hand-harvesting, extended maceration, and careful aging in French oak barrels, to create a wine that captures the essence of this exceptional terroir.

Appearance: Deep ruby red with a bright, clear rim, showing a youthful vibrancy despite its power and concentration.

Aroma: The nose is intense and complex, with aromas of ripe red and black cherries, raspberries, and blackberries, intertwined with earthy notes of forest floor, truffles, and subtle spices. Hints of leather, tobacco, and finely integrated oak add to the wine’s aromatic depth.

Taste: On the palate, the wine is rich and full-bodied, with layers of ripe black cherry, plum, and red currant, complemented by notes of cloves, cinnamon, and a touch of dark chocolate. The tannins are firm yet refined, providing a velvety texture, while the wine’s vibrant acidity keeps the palate fresh and balanced.

Finish: The finish is long and persistent, with lingering flavours of dark berries, earthy minerality, and a subtle spiciness from the oak, reflecting both the ripeness of the vintage and the complexity of the Grand Cru site.

Food pairing: This Grand Cru Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with roasted game, such as venison or duck, where the wine’s structure and dark fruit complement the richness of the meat. It is also an excellent match for beef Wellington, as the wine’s earthiness and spice harmonise with the dish’s savoury, flaky pastry and tender beef.