Gevrey Chambertin by Claude Dugat 2022

The journey of the family owner of the Claude Dugat Winery begins in 1955 when Maurice Dugat, Claude’s father, purchased the historic Grange des Dimes and converted the stone barn into a winery facility. Now named the Cellier des Dimes, this historic structure dates back to 1219 when locals would bring their tithe (10% of production) of grapes and/or cereals for the benefit of the church.

Claude, along with his wife Marie-Thérèse, are truly the ones who brought the estate into the limelight. Claude took control of the family estate in 1991 and since then has continued to wow and impress collectors and enthusiasts the world over with his impeccable touch and expertise. Claude was joined by his son, Bertrand, in the early 2000’s and the two spent nearly a decade working together before Claude officially passed the reins off to Bertrand. Today the estate is entirely in the hands of Bertrand & his two sisters, Laetitia & Jeanne. Bertrand spends most of his time in the cellar, while Laetitia & Jeanne handle the majority of the vineyard work and decisions.

Farming practices at the domaine are strictly sustainable and done without the use of any fertilisers or herbicides. Since 2013 they have been farming with an emphasis on organic procedures as well as incorporating some biodynamic practices. At the heart of all their vineyard work is the idea of having a light touch in the vineyards in order to bring in the highest quality fruit. Picking decisions are based on sample tastes of fruit, as opposed to lab analysis, which guarantees that the fruit always retains a level of freshness and is never picked on the late side of ripening.

The family farms around 6 ha of vines across Gevrey, 3 of which they own outright and the remaining vineyards which they rent. They have some of the region’s oldest vines under their control. Claude prefers lower yields and smaller berries, wanting to have the same number of bunches as his neighbours but with berries half the size. This is a defining factor in the concentration and power behind the Dugat wines.