2011 Chambertin Clos de Beze
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Tasting notes
The 2011 Chambertin Clos-de-Bèze Grand Cru just has its nose in front when compared directly against the 2011 Chambertin. The oak influence that was conspicuous in its youth is not fully assimilated and there is real brightness, a little more precision on the nose. Red cherries, cassis, hints of dark chocolate combine beautifully here. There is a touch of spiciness on the palate, armed with clove and light tobacco secondary notes that lend another dimension on the complex and persistent finish. Superb. Tasted at Bistro de l'Hôtel in Beaune.
Critic scores
Average Score
Allen Meadows, Burghound
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
What a treat it is to taste the 2011 Chambertin Clos de Beze. Smoke, incense, tar, blueberry jam and French oak meld together the glass. In 2011, the Bèze boasts stunning depth and resonance from the very first taste. Readers who are lucky enough to find the Beze should not hesitate, as it is pure magic. At the same time, it won't be ready to deliver its full potential for a decade-plus.
A potently expressive nose blends both wood and natural spice together with distinctly cool, pure and ripe wild red berries, earth and underbrush. The palate impression is a gorgeous combination of power and refinement along with flat out superb complexity on the explosively long, focused and beautifully well-balanced finish. The supporting structure is dense but fine and this should prove to be a moderately long-lived example. Drink: 2028+
About the producer
Based in Gevrey-Chambertin, Domaine Armand Rousseau is one of Burgundy’s most famous estates. Revered for making unearthly expressions of Pinot Noir, the estate’s wines are some of the most collectable in the world.