Charmes-Chambertin, Domaine Arlaud, 1979

① Introduction

 

 

Domaine Arlaud, based in Morey-Saint-Denis, is known for producing delicate, pure, gently extracted wines. In the 1970s and 1980s, the domaine’s style was even more classical, with lighter body, pronounced acidity, and understated fruit—favoring transparency of terroir and graceful evolution with age.

 

 

Charmes-Chambertin is among the most charming and approachable Grand Crus of Gevrey-Chambertin. Unlike the deeper, more muscular Chambertin or Mazis-Chambertin, Charmes tends toward roundness, elegance, sweet-toned red fruit, and refinement. Arlaud’s gentle style aligns naturally with the vineyard’s character.

 

 

1979 is a classical vintage: balanced, fresh, not overly ripe, with lively acidity—ideal for expressing finesse over power.

 

 

 

② Terroir Characteristics

 

 

Charmes-Chambertin lies near Chambertin and Griotte-Chambertin and is known for:

 

 

• Limestone mixed with clay soils

• Earlier and softer fruit maturity

• Red fruit–driven aromatics, floral lift, gentle spice

• Softer structure and less wildness than other Gevrey Grand Crus

• Signature style: rounded, charming, elegant, with aging potential

 

 

Arlaud’s interpretation emphasizes finesse, purity, and linear freshness.

 

 

 

③ Style of the 1979 Vintage

 

 

1979 produced wines that are balanced, fresh, and suitable for medium to long aging.

 

 

Aromatics:

Red cherry, raspberry, wild strawberry, dried rose, forest floor, gentle spice, and subtle leather; with age, truffle, dried flowers, mushroom, and earthy nuances emerge.

 

 

Palate:

Medium-bodied; bright acidity; silky, resolved tannins; elegant and lifted rather than powerful. A wine of finesse and purity rather than density.

 

 

Maturity:

Now in full maturity or slightly beyond, showing integrated fruit, savory complexity, and the refined delicacy of aged Burgundy.