Domaine Trapet Père et Fils Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Petite Chapelle 1999
- Region
- France » Burgundy » Côte d'Or » Côte de Nuits » Gevrey-Chambertin AOC
- Type
- red still, dry
- Producer
- Vintage
- 1999
- Grapes
- Pinot Noir
- Alcohol
- 12.5
- Volume
- 750 mL
- Cellar
- not available
- Find at
Ratings
Domaine Trapet Père et Fils ranks among Gevrey-Chambertin’s finest, famed for wines that capture the nuance and power of this legendary terroir. With holdings in premier vineyards, including Grand Cru Chambertin, they’ve built a reputation on organic and biodynamic principles introduced by Jean-Louis Trapet, aiming for purity and respect for the land. Their Petite Chapelle Premier Cru, just below Chapelle-Chambertin, often demonstrates a gentle floral lift, refined tannins, and a graceful mineral echo—typical of its Grand Cru neighbour’s influence.
I’d been keen to try this bottle in particular, especially after being wowed by another Trapet Gevrey. The intrigue doubled when I realised it was a 26-year-old 1er Cru. Initially, the nose throws up an odd burst of beetroot juice, but that quickly fades, letting in notes of menthol and pickles, mingled with dried fruit, dust, savoury meat, forest floor, mushrooms, and a soft wash of red flowers. The palate proves even more compelling: layered and intricate, anchored by a fresh seam of acidity and a coarse, almost grainy tannin. There’s a fascinating finish, where cherry confiture interweaves with earthy mushroom and meaty undertones. Oddly, for all the maturity, the tannic presence is still robust—so much so that one taster questioned why it’s still gripping at this age. The wine also leans old-school in style, demanding a certain mindset to fully embrace, yet there’s no denying its beauty or the sheer pleasure it provides. It’s a snapshot of how Gevrey can unfold over time, with a depth and character that, however unusual, feels distinctly alive in the glass.
About Producer
- **Legacy of Innovation:** Domaine Trapet Père et Fils' historical contribution to Burgundy's viticulture, especially during the phylloxera crisis, underscores a legacy of innovation and resilience, with a commitment to biodynamic practices leading the way in natural viticulture within the region. - **Biodynamic Excellence:** Under Jean-Louis Trapet, the estate has embraced biodynamic farming, earning Demeter certification and producing wines that reflect a profound connection to the land, showcasing the purity and elegance of Gevrey-Chambertin's terroir. - **Artisanal Winemaking:** The domaine's nuanced approach to winemaking, including the strategic use of whole cluster fermentation and minimal new oak, articulates a vision where finesse and terroir transparency are paramount, crafting Pinot Noirs of unparalleled complexity and ageing potential.
Domaine Trapet Père et Fils, a beacon of heritage and innovation in Gevrey-Chambertin, represents the pinnacle of Pinot Noir craftsmanship through seven generations of dedication to the vine. Renowned for its significant holdings in Chambertin, the estate's lineage is marked by resilience and pioneering spirit, notably during the phylloxera crisis when Jean-Louis' great-grandfather undertook illegal vine grafting to preserve their legacy. This bold act not only safeguarded their own vineyards but also contributed to the survival of Burgundian viticulture. Today, under Jean-Louis Trapet's guidance, the domaine stands as a testament to the virtues of biodynamic farming, harmonizing with nature to produce wines that are celebrated for their purity, complexity, and elegance, diverging from the appellation's tendency towards power.
Jean-Louis Trapet's approach in the cellar is as thoughtful as it is in the vineyard, with a clear focus on expressing the authentic character of their terroir. Through the judicious use of whole cluster fermentation, tailored to the nuances of each vintage, and a restrained application of new oak, Trapet ensures that the intrinsic qualities of their esteemed vineyards shine through. The domaine's portfolio spans from the accessible charm of their Bourgogne Passetoutgrain and Rouge, through a commendable range of Premier Crus, to the profound depth of their Grand Crus—Latricières-Chambertin, Chapelle-Chambertin, and Chambertin. Each wine is a narrative of its origin, woven with threads of aromatic complexity, flavour depth, and potential for graceful ageing, emblematic of Jean-Louis Trapet's virtuosity.