Darren Harris
Charmes-Chambertin remains a bit of an enigma. It is by no means the most popular Grand Cru of Gevrey but when it is good, it can be very, very good. Domaine des Varoilles Charmes-Chambertin is a supremely impressive wine. It is bigger and much deeper than all of the Premier Crus. The nose displays dark fruits, smoke and minerals. On the palate there is more with dark chocolate and a rich, creamy texture. There is new oak (60% used here) and some powerful but not coarse tannins. Needs some time in the cellar. Great Charmes!
Bill Nanson "The Burgundy Report"
60% new oak, the rest in 1 year-old barrels - from Mazoyères mainly though a little proper Charmes too - the parcel directly facing Latricières.
Wide faintly oak spiced - but not overtly oaky - the fruit like all the others is quite tight. Supple, layered, lots of concentration, just a hint fumé from the barrels - less overtly energetic than the Varoilles, delicious and maybe a little floral finishing too. I’d definitely drink the Varoilles before this one, but it’s a super length of finish.
Jancis Robinson
Deep cherry red. Deep in sweet fruit and oak sweetness. Smooth, velvet tannins and has plenty of freshness under the (currently) very obvious oak. Needs time for the oak to recede but it has plenty of stuffing to do that.
Domaine des Varoilles
