2014 Domaine Bertheau Bonnes Mares

Domaine Francois Bertheau is a 15-acre estate in Chambolle-Musigny, Burgundy. Francois Bertheau is now in charge of this estate, which has been in the Bertheau family for five generations. The estate produces Bonnes-Mares and Chambolle-Musigny Premier Cru. There is also a village Chambolle-Musigny. Up to 15,000 bottles are produced a year. Noted Burgundy expert Clive Coates has written that Francois Bertheau “is a careful winemaker and the results are succulent, elegant and classic examples of Chambolle-Musigny….This is an address that deserves greater recognition.”

Bonnes Mares is a Grand Cru vineyard that is located in two appellations Chambolle-Musigny and the neighboring Morey St.-Denis. Of the total of 37.6 acres, 33.75 are in Chambolle, and just under 4 acres are in Morey St. Denis. The history of the vineyard is complicated and today there are some 35 landholders. The vineyard lies between 265 and 300 meters. The soil is heavier toward Morey St.-Denis, which is the northern end of the vineyard, and lighter as the vineyard enters the Chambolle-Musigny commune. Principal landholders are De Vogue, 6.7 acres; Drouhin-Laroze, 3.7 acres; and Georges Roumier, 3.5 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.