2018 Domaine Jacques Prieur Chambertin Grand Cru

The Jacques Prieur estate

Domaine Jacques Prieur is one of Burgundy's most established wineries and has played a key role in the development of leading wines from the Côte d'Or since the late 19th century. Located in Meursault, the estate owns vineyards in several prestigious appellations. The Prieur family has been joined by the Labruyère family for years, making tradition and modern vision a natural combination. Under the leadership of winemaker Nadine Gublin, the quality level has been further refined in recent decades. Her approach revolves around precision, tension, and a consistent focus on balance in the wine. This makes the wines recognizable by their pure style and layered aromas.

The location and significance of Chambertin Grand Cru

Chambertin Grand Cru forms the historic heart of Gevrey Chambertin. The east-facing slopes ideally benefit from the morning sun, which promotes even ripening. The soil, a combination of chalky clay and deep mineral layers, gives the Pinot Noir structure and intensity. The vineyard is known for wines with power, length, and remarkable finesse. The estate's old vines produce low yields and concentrated fruit that perfectly complements the Chambertin signature.

The style of the red wines of Domaine Jacques Prieur

The estate's red wines are known for their expressive fruit, refined tannins, and a long, energetic finish. The use of French oak supports the fruit without dominating it. The estate opts for an approach that prioritizes balance. The wines are never heavy, but retain tension and freshness, even in warmer years. Nadine Gublin often emphasizes the importance of natural acidity and controlled extraction. The wines age beautifully and gain complexity and depth with age.

The 2018 Domaine Jacques Prieur Chambertin Grand Cru

The 2018 vintage had an early season with healthy grapes, with harvest commencing on August 29th. The Pinot Noir exhibited good sugar levels and retained tartaric acidity, which was crucial in the warm conditions. The grapes were completely destemmed, and the estate vinified with a simple, relaxed approach thanks to the remarkably healthy harvest. Malolactic fermentation concluded in the spring of 2019, after which the wine was further aged in barrel. Alcohol levels remained within an elegant range between 13.5 and 13.8 percent, and total acidity remained stable. This gives the 2018 Chambertin its structure and a beautiful balance between power and freshness.

Vinification, maturation and future development

The 2018 Chambertin Grand Cru was fully destemmed and fermented in a way that respects the natural concentration of the fruit. The tannins are firm yet well-integrated, which suits the character of this vintage. The wine displays a clear structure that can further refine with age. The lively acidity and mineral tension give it longevity. According to tasters, the wine has an assertive character and plenty of energy, and it can open up further in the coming years. The drinking season likely extends well beyond 2040, and the wine already has the intensity typical of Chambertin, but it is precisely time that will bring more nuance.

Color, aroma and taste of the 2018 Chambertin Grand Cru

The wine displays a deep ruby red color with a vibrant heart. The nose opens with dark aromas of blackberry, briar, and subtle mineral notes. These notes are complemented by subtle nuances of smoke and spice. The nose is energetic and tightly defined. The palate reveals firm, persistent tannins that fully fill the mouth. The structure is full yet balanced thanks to the acidity that gives the wine freshness and length. The palate reveals dark berries, smoke, earth, and a delicate spiciness. The finish is long and offers room for further development. The wine has the character of a driven Chambertin with a powerful core that will reveal greater refinement in the coming years.

Would you like to order Jacques Prieur wines online?

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you these when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway with ample parking. Click here for our address. You can read full wine reviews from publications like Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator.

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Wine and food pairing advice for the 2018 Chambertin Grand Cru

Venison calf with stewed red cabbage and spicy gravy
The wine's structure and dark fruit complement the deep flavours of venison and the soft sweetness of red cabbage perfectly.

Beef tenderloin with black garlic and potato mousseline
The fine acidity and firm tannins add tension to the creamy textures and savoury notes.

Risotto with porcini mushrooms
The earthy notes of the mushrooms complement the mineral accents and dark fruit of the wine.

Duck with figs and balsamic vinegar
The sweet fig fruit forms a harmonious bridge between the wine's aromatic profile and the rich meat.

Roasted cauliflower with hazelnut and thyme
The roasted notes and light nuttiness complement the spicy, earthy undertones of the wine beautifully.

Rack of lamb with rosemary and roasted vegetables
The power of the wine supports the succulent lamb and the spicy accents provide a complete combination.