1996 Domaine Trapet Pere & Fils Chambertin

Domaine Trapet Pere et Fils is one of the larger estates in Gevrey-Chambertin, in Burgundy. The estate is comprised of 30 acres, including significant parcels in the Grand Cru vineyards of Chambertin, Chapelle-Chambertin and Latricieres-Chambertin. The Trapet family has owned vineyards in the area since 1870, but only started bottling their wine in the 1960s. In the early 1990s the estate was divided in half so a new generation could own their own enterprises. Domaine Trapet became Domaine Trapet Pere et Fils, and it is run by Jean-Louis, son of Jean Trapet. The estate is known for its three Grand Crus, though it also produces several Premier Crus and villages wines.

Chambertin is a 32.5 acre Grand Cru vineyard in the Gevrey-Chambertin appellation. More than 25 proprietors own parcels, and some parcels are as small as about 50 square yards. The famous vineyard gets its name from a 7th century peasant, Monsieur Bertin. The name is assumed to come from the phrase “champ Bertin,” or Bertin’s field. Chambertin has an altitude that varies from 275 to 300 meters and is tucked under the Montagne de la Combe-Grisard, sheltering the site from strong winds. The soil is limestone, though there is also clay and gravel. Principal proprietors by acreage owned are Armand Rousseau, 5.38 acres; Jean and Jean-Louis Trapet, 4.75 acres; and Rossignol-Trapet, 4 acres.

This red wine is relatively light and can pair with a wide variety of foods. The grape prefers cooler climates and the wine is most often associated with Burgundy, Champagne and the U.S. west coast. Regional differences make it nearly as fickle as it is flexible.

Jean & Jean-Louis Trapet