Ruchottes-Chambertin, rare Burgundy Grand Cru to enhance any cellar

Nestled in the prestigious Côte de Nuits region of Burgundy, France, Ruchottes-Chambertin Grand Cru is a small jewel in the Burgundy crown, particularly revered by collectors searching for excellence in Pinot Noir. Ruchottes-Chambertin Grand Cru sits within the larger Gevrey-Chambertin area and embodies the finesse, complexity, and age-worthiness that wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs hold dear.

The Allure of Grand Cru

In Burgundy, small vineyard – Among these esteemed sites, Ruchottes-Chambertin Grand Cru stands out for its rarity and distinct character. A bottle of the priced Grand Cru will start a conversation, making it a prized addition for any collector or enthusiast eager to impress guests.

Before delving deeper into the nuances of this exquisite wine, let us address its pronunciation: “Roo-SHOT cham-ber-TAN.”

The Vineyard’s Composition

Ruchottes-Chambertin is relatively small, spanning just 3.32 hectares, and is divided into two distinct sections. The upper part, Clos des Ruchottes, comprises 1.10 hectares and is exclusively owned by Domaine Armand Rousseau, the Grand Cru’s largest proprietor. The remaining 2.2 hectares, known as Ruchottes du Bas, are shared among seven other producers, with Domaine Mugneret-Gibourg holding the second largest share at 0.64 hectares.

This Grand Cru is renowned for its steep slopes, contributing significantly to the vineyard’s unique microclimate. The stony, well-drained soils, rich in limestone, compel the vines to establish deep root systems, allowing them to extract essential nutrients and express the terroir’s subtleties in the resulting wines. 

The upper portion features brown soils, partly alluvial and partly composed of scree, reaching depths of several centimetres. In contrast, the lower slopes contain clay-limestone soils in varying proportions. The vineyard benefits from a continental climate characterised by warm summers and cold winters, while its southeastern exposure ensures ample sunlight. This promotes grape ripening while preserving the acidity vital for achieving balance in the wine.

The Character of Ruchottes-Chambertin Wines

Ruchottes-Chambertin Grand Cru is exclusively dedicated to red wine production from Pinot Noir. However, these wines often display a leaner, more elegant style than the rich, structured wines typically associated with Gevrey-Chambertin. This lighter character does not compromise concentration; instead, it offers a fragrant bouquet that captivates the senses. 

Henri Jayer, a legendary figure in Burgundy winemaking, famously remarked at a tasting at Mugneret-Gibourg that Ruchottes-Chambertin is “a Chambertin raised in Vosne.” The wines from this Grand Cru often exhibit bright red fruit notes—such as cherry and raspberry—complemented by subtle earthy undertones and floral elements. The palate is characterised by lively acidity, refined tannins, and a delicate minerality that speaks to the vineyard’s unique soil composition. Over time, these wines develop layers of complexity, showcasing intricate spice notes.

A Historical Perspective

An intriguing aspect of Ruchottes-Chambertin is its historical significance. The vineyard’s name, “Ruchottes,” derives from the old French word “roches,” meaning rocks or cliffs, which alludes to the rugged terrain that defines its landscape. This geological diversity plays a crucial role in shaping the complexity and finesse of the wines produced here, adding an extra layer of appreciation for those who delve into its history.

Are you interested in the history of the Burgundy Classification; check out this other article https://editorial.crurated.com/introduction-to-burgundys-wine-classification-a-legacy-of-1855/ 

Ideal for Collectors

Ruchottes-Chambertin is particularly appealing to collectors for several compelling reasons:

Rarity: Only a limited number of bottles are produced each year, making acquiring Ruchottes-Chambertin challenging. However, this scarcity enhances its value and appeal as an investment, making it a coveted find for wine aficionados.

Quality Domaines: Only a handful of producers, such as Domaine Mugneret-Gibourg, Domaine Armand Rousseau Père et Fils, and Domaine Georges & Christophe Roumier, include Ruchottes-Chambertin in their portfolios. These producers have consistently demonstrated excellence in their winemaking, further elevating the vineyard’s prestige.

Ageing Potential: The structure and balance of Ruchottes-Chambertin wines make them excellent candidates for ageing. While they can be enjoyed in their youth, the complex flavours and aromas evolve beautifully over time, rewarding collectors who let their bottles mature.

Ruchottes-Chambertin vs. Clos Saint-Jacques

To better appreciate Ruchottes-Chambertin’s appeal, it is insightful to compare it with another celebrated vineyard in the region: Clos Saint-Jacques. Located on the other side of the rift to Ruchottes-Chambertin, Clos Saint-Jacques is renowned for its powerful and intense wines. While both vineyards produce exceptional Pinot Noir, notable differences in their styles emerge.

Clos Saint-Jacques, an equally small site in Chambolle Munsigny—with only five producers holding vineyards here—has, over the years, fascinated wine enthusiasts all over the world. 

Ruchottes-Chambertin typically showcases a more velvety profile, characterised by layers of subtle complexity and finesse. The wines often achieve a delicate balance of fruit and earthiness, rendering them incredibly food-friendly. In contrast, Clos Saint-Jacques is known for its boldness and depth, frequently presenting concentrated fruit flavours and a more pronounced structure. 

Collectors might gravitate towards Ruchottes-Chambertin for its sophistication and elegance, while those searching for a more robust experience may find themselves drawn to Clos Saint-Jacques. Ultimately, both vineyards represent the pinnacle of Burgundy winemaking, each offering a unique interpretation of the beloved Pinot Noir grape.

Is there anyone up to do a side-by-side tasting?

Explore Ruchottes-Chambertin release and offering

Are you intrigued by Ruchottes-Chambertin? Secure your allocation of Mugneret-Gibourg Ruchottes-Chambertin 2023 on Crurated – With a small 10-barrel production each year, the estate has offered Crurated Clients the opportunity to buy fractions of one barrel before it is released on the market. 

Discover the world’s finest wines with Crurated’s exclusive membership. Access rare allocations, secure storage, and personalized wine concierge services. Join today the elite club of discerning wine enthusiasts.
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