Domaine Bertheau in Chambolle-Musigny can be summed up by two words–typicity and focus. Their work, as in all great domaines, starts in the vineyards, all of which are located in the village of Chambolle. Bertheau’s holdings would make any lover of great Burgundy drool. Not only does he have Bonnes Mares Grand Cru and Amoureuses Premier Cru (the best premier cru in Chambolle), but his other premier cru holdings are equally impressive–a blend of Baudes, Groseilles, Gruenchers, and Noirots. All of these parcels are very close together and Bertheau harvests them and vinifies them together, giving the wine spectacular complexity. Les Baudes happens to be located just below Bonnes Mares. 

A very hands-off winemaker, François Bertheau allows the wines to express themselves–there is very little manipulation, very little racking, very little new wood (only 10% in total), and each wine is left to evolve slowly in barrel. These are classic Chambolles, emphasizing finesse, elegance, high-toned aromatics and silky textures. They typically drink well immediately upon release and remain balanced with aging–their approachability should not be confused with shorter life spans because these wines age beautifully.