Darren Harris
From Les Combottes and Aux Combottes, across the road from each other and with virtually identical names. One might think the wine could be labelled 1er Cru Combottes but that is not permitted - hence the simple 1er Cru nonclementure. The vineyards adjoin the 1er Cru Charmes and this central section of Chambolle-Musigny produces perfumed and supple wines redolent of juicy fruit and flowers with more gentle tannins than those to the north near Bonnes-Mares. Many would say this is classic Chambolle. Felettig’s 2018 is the second vintage of this cuvee produced from vineyards, some owned by the extended family, farmed by the domaine. The wine has a soaring bouquet of juicy, pure fruit, mostly in the red spectrum, with violets and some whole bunch character (about 25% used in this cuvee). The palate shows the same vibrant character with full medium body and silky texture. The tannins in the wine support but are not assertive. The balance is tremendous. This is a beautiful and complete bottle of wine and a Chambolle benchmark.
Jasper Morris MW
From two plots where Gilbert works the vines and then buys in the grapes, in both Les and Aux Combottes. 50% new wood and 20% whole bunch. Pretty mid purple, fine fresh and elegant fruit, dances across the palate, not too deep, all in red fruit with some violets. Very well judged. Lovely finish. Tasted: November 2019.
Vinous Media - Neal MArtin
The 2018 Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru is actually a blend of purchased fruit from Aux Combottes and Les Combottes, which is why there is no vineyard designation on the label. It is matured in 50% new oak with 30% whole-bunch fruit. It has an expressive bouquet of blackberry, briar, sous-bois and light black tea aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and a fine bead of acidity, and quite elegant in style. The supple finish is missing some mineralité, but otherwise this is very fine. Drink: 2022-2040.
Domaine Gilbert and Christine Felettig
