Visiting Gevrey-Chambertin
Gevrey-Chambertin is one of the eight key villages of the Côte de Nuits of Burgundy, France. Each village produces red wine exclusively from the Pinot Noir grape.
Yet it may surprise people that each village expresses the finished wine in a different manner. Variations in flavor and structure are quite distinct. Many experts can taste Burgundy wines “blind” and correctly state its origin, as well as its quality level.
History of the Region
Ancient lore suggests that Chambertin, the most famous of the Grand Crus, takes its name from a peasant named Bertin.
Because M. Bertin planted the first vines and produced the wines, his vineyard became known as “the Champs de Bertin” (the fields of Bertin). The name evolved to Chambertin over time.
Emperor Napoleon loved Pinot Noir from this region, so the wines of Chambertin became widely known. For this reason, in the 1880s the Mayor of Gevrey appended his Village’s name (Gevrey) with its most famous vineyard – Chambertin. Alas the history behind the name Gevrey-Chambertin.
Producers of Gevrey-Chambertin
Like most villages in Burgundy, producers range from familiar, famous names like Domaine Faiveley and Albert Bichot, to smaller, highly respected producers. The latter names are mainly known by Burgundy collectors and sommeliers in Michelin-rated restaurants.
Bernard Bouvier, of Domaine Bernard Bouvier, is a typical producer of Gevrey-Chambertin wines. His grandfather created the estate in 1910. Like many Burgundian producers overall, the family now owns vineyards in six villages.
Some Gevrey-Chambertin vineyards owned by Bouvier are over 80 years old. His best vineyard holdings include Charmes-Chambertin Grand cru, Gevrey-Chambertin ‘Clos de la Justice,’ and village-level Gevrey-Chambertin.
Visiting Gevrey-Chambertin
Where to Stay in Gevrey-Chambertin
Gevrey-Chambertin offers accommodations of various types at a range of price points. Many hotels can help you arrange tours of the nearby wineries. So be certain to ask about these tours when you make your reservation.
This charming hotel also has a Michelin-rated restaurant. Rooms are decorated in a very classic French style, which means elaborate window treatments, gold frames, and Old-World elegance.
Classic in style, the rooms are all different in décor. Some have the traditionally exposed beams common to Burgundian architecture, while others have a more modern ceiling. Beautiful gilt-framed artwork can be found in many of the rooms.
Housed in a 17th century structure, you will find several luxury suites to accommodate couples, friends, or families in this guest house. The owners can arrange wine tours and other personalized services. At the time of this writing, Les deux Chèvres offer guided tours in the vineyards with four-wheel drive vehicles.
Restaurants In Gevrey-Chambertin
Chez Guy is a popular restaurant in the town, known for its good Burgundian cuisine as well as its extensive wine list.
When to Visit
Gevrey-Chambertin is beautiful all seasons of the year. But one of the best times to visit – especially in 2020 – is during the annual Saint Vincent Tournante held this year in Gevrey-Chambertin,
The word “tournante” refers to the fact that the celebration rotates (turns) from village to village every year.
Wine lovers from around the world are welcome to the Saint Vincent Tournante to share good times, enjoy Burgundy wine, and celebrate Saint Vincent, the patron of wine growers.
Chevaliers de la Confrérie du Tastevin and patrons of each Burgundy appellation walking to the church for a religious procession. Then from 11am on, visitors can taste Gevrey-Chambertin wine in the cellars.
During the two days of the festival, guests will also find concerts, art exhibitions, and streets filled with vendors selling the food and wine of Burgundy.
The tourist office of Gevrey-Chambertin is a great place to start your journey. They can recommend a variety of tours. Apart from wine, you can also find truffle hunting activities and more.
For additional information about tours, please contact the tour agency directly by emailing sejour (@) gevreynuitstourisme.com
Ron D'Vari
Ron D'Vari writes about fine wine from Burgundy.
