Domaine Fourrier   Griottes Chambertin Grand Cru

2008 Griottes Chambertin Grand Cru

By Domaine Fourrier

A Disquisition on the 2008 Griottes Chambertin Grand Cru from Domaine Fourrier

Within the pantheon of Burgundy's vinous offerings, the 2008 Griottes Chambertin Grand Cru from Domaine Fourrier unravels its narrative with a voice as distinct as it is captivating. A study in poise and intricacy, this vintage mirrors the challenges and ultimate triumphs of a season that tested the mettle of the vines and vignerons alike.

 

Exploring the 2008 Vintage Landscape

The 2008 vintage in Burgundy was an essay in delayed gratification - a slow start to the growing season gave way to an unexpectedly glorious September, granting the grapes an eleventh-hour reprieve, resulting in wines tinged with remarkable vibrancy. Jean-Marie Fourrier, maestro of his artisanal clan, harnessed this swing from adversity to elegance with a deft hand. The precision balance between fruit concentration and terroir expression in Griottes Chambertin Grand Cru serves as a testament to this alchemy.

In your glass, this wine unfurls with an enigmatic bouquet — wafts of black cherry and fresh violets set against a backdrop of subtly woven oak. On the palate, one revels in a tapestry of refined tannins and a chiseled mineral structure; the patronage of a relatively cool year bestows upon it an acid line that guides each flavour note with the command of an orchestral conductor.

 

An Oenophilic Jewel Honed by Time

Evolving gracefully, this Grand Cru from Domaine Fourrier now presents itself as a paragon choice for astute investors with perspicacity for Burgundian classics. Its provenance from one of the revered Grand Cru sites in Gevrey-Chambertin, coupled with Domaine Fourrier's reverence for authentic expression, elevates its desirability, promising further complexities as the symphony of its maturation continues unscripted within cellar sanctuaries.

As the narrative of 2008 unfolds further, peeling back its layers reveals dark fruit compote with whispers of worn leather, earthy undertones, and a sprinkling of spice-box elements that regale the senses. Such characteristics resonate not only with collectors but also those who seek to diversify portfolios through anchored investments in singular vintages that bespeak their time and place.

In summation, the 2008 Griottes Chambertin Grand Cru from Domaine Fourrier emerges as not merely a beverage but an experience - one that captures an ephemeral moment encapsulated through Jean-Marie’s expert stewardship. It represents not only a profound sensorial delight but also an astute investment proposition for connoisseurs looking to adorn their cellars with jewels born from a year that demanded nothing less than excellence.

Current market price

$16,830.00

12x75cl

Highest score

96

POP score

630

Scores and tasting notes

96

Interestingly, the 2008 Griotte-Chambertin is less marked by the vintage than the Clos St. Jacques; rather here it is the signature of the vineyard that reigns supreme. Readers will find a wine of exquisite textural elegance and finesse. Silky tannins frame the fragrant, sweet fruit through to the generous, inviting finish. This is another superb wine from Jean-Marie Fourrier. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2033. Count me among the Burgundy fans who are thrilled Jean-Marie Fourrier chose not to pursue the career as a commercial airline pilot for which he studied. Fourrier began picking on September 17. The fruit was destemmed. Cuvaison lasted around 14 days but Fourrier commented that he had an unusually high (50%) amount of shot berries, which had the effect of extending the fermentations for another week or so. The malos started and ended early, hence Fourrier decided to bottle early as well. Per his usual practice, Fourrier left the wines on the lees with no racking until the wines were prepared for bottling. On average the wines saw 20% new oak. I tasted all of the 2009s from bottle. Importer: Rosenthal Wine Merchant, Pine Plains, NY; tel. (800) 910-1990

Antonio Galloni - The Wine Advocate, 1 May 2011

Vintage performance