2006 Alain Burguet Chambertin Clos de Beze

Alain Burguet is an 18-acre domain based in Gevrey-Chambertin. It was established in 1974 when Alain rented space in vineyards and began making his own wine. He later bought vineyards. Alain retired in 2011 and the domain is today run by his sons Jean-Luke and Eric. The domain has Premier Cru parcels in Gevrey-Chambertin and villages vineyards as well. In 2003 Alain started a negociant business through which he also offers Chambertin Clos de Beze and Clos Vougeot. Alain Burguet produces about 40,000 bottles annually and earns praise from reviewers.

Chambertin Clos-de-Beze is a Grand Cru vineyard in Gevrey-Chambertin, and its history goes back to the 7th century when it was owned by the monks of the Abbey of Beze. After the French Revolution the Catholic Church was forced to divide the vineyard among peasants. Today it is a 38-acre vineyard, making it slightly larger than Chambertin. Chambertin and Chambertin Clos-de-Beze are adjacent and share similar limestone, clay and gravel soils. Of the 18 proprietors, the largest by acreage are Pierre Damoy, 13.4 acres; Armand Rousseau, 3.5 acres; and Drouhin-Laroze, 3.48 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.