2012 Camus Chambertin

Camus Pere et Fils in Gevrey-Chambertin has been in the Camus family since the early 19th century. Hubert Camus is still the head of the domaine, though his daughter Melle is increasingly involved with the business. Hubert Camus has spent much of the last several decades involved with many civic and viticultural organizations, and he is well known in the region. The 35-acre domaine includes Grand Cru parcels in Charmes-Chambertin, Chambertin, Latricières-Chambertin, Mazoyères-Chambertin and Mazis-Chambertin. The domaine also makes a village Gevrey-Chambertin.

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.