1998 Jean Raphet Chambertin Clos-de-Beze Cuvee Unique Reserve

Jean Raphet’s domaine has been managed since 2002 by his son, Gérard Raphet. The name of the estate has also been changed to Gérard Raphet. The 30-acre estate includes parcels in Charmes-Chambertin, Clos de la Roche, Chambertin, Clos-de-Vougeot, Gevrey-Chambertin and Morey-Saint-Denis. There are Grand Cru, Premier Cru and villages parcels. Burgundy expert Clive Coates has written that “the line-up is impressive, and the atmosphere efficient. The results can be very good; rich, full, plummy and succulent.”

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.