Laurent Ponsot Chambertin Cuvée du Chêne 2021

Laurent Ponsot bottles this Chambertin, one of the most powerful grands crus in the Côte de Nuits, on the upper slope of Gevrey-Chambertin. The site sits on a thin, stony topsoil over hard limestone, with a good east to south-east exposure and free drainage that ripen Pinot Noir fully while the limestone and cool climate hold structure and freshness. Chambertin is built for depth and ageing, the most structured expression of the Gevrey hill. The cool 2021 vintage, low in yield, keeps the wine fragrant even at this weight. Ageing in barrel allows slow oxygen exchange through the wood to settle the firm tannin and add savoury spice while keeping the dark fruit defined. It pours a deep ruby. The nose shows dark cherry, plum and red berries, with forest floor, leather and a liquorice edge that deepens with air. The palate is full and firmly structured, with grippy tannin, bright acidity and a long, savoury, mineral finish that calls for time in the cellar. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees in a large glass with an hour or more of air. It rewards roast and braised red meats.