Charmes Chambertin

A vineyard that predominantly lies below Chambertin, also encompassing the Mazoyères-Chamertin (which is below Latricières), next door to Morey-St-Denis. At 31.6 ha it is Gevrey-Chambertin's biggest Grand Cru and, as is the case with Clos de Vougeot and Échezeaux, this size and the fact that part of the vineyard goes as far down the slope as the low-lying route national, can mean variable quality. When its good, though, its very good. At best it should be the most feminine, fragrant and fruity of the Gevrey Grands Crus, with a soft, supple, tannic structure but sufficient intensity and length of flavour.