I never expected the 2011 Chambertin to have such a firm backbone! I opened it yesterday at 3:30 for decanter breathing, then started glass-breathing at 6:30. Right after pouring, it was extremely tight – it wasn't until 8:30, after two full hours in the glass, that the aromas finally emerged: intense floral and powdery rose notes, with a powerful structure, great depth, and hints of chocolate, earth, leather, tobacco, and a peppery spice. The fruit was certainly there, but it wasn't soft or delicate. To be honest, this was a great wine in terms of aroma, structure, and quality – but it wasn't easy drinking. It felt like hard work, and frankly, it's not my preferred style. I took half the bottle home. Then tonight at 6:00, I opened the remaining half – and wow, the nose was bursting with wild roses, violets, and powdery perfume. The palate was a pure delight: the tannins had turned incredibly silky, with black cherry and sour plum intertwined, finishing clean, sweet, and refreshing. Completely opened up. This wine, when closed, is deep, introverted, and grand in structure; once open, it becomes flamboyant and exuberant. From now on, I think the best approach for Chambertin is an 8-hour decanter breather, followed by glass-breathing to appreciate its evolution along the way.
I never expected the 2011 Chambertin to have such a firm backbone! I opened it yesterday at 3:30 for decanter breathing, then started glass-breathing at 6:30. Right after pouring, it was extremely tight – it wasn't until 8:30, after two full hours in the glass, that the aromas finally emerged: intense floral and powdery rose notes, with a powerful structure, great depth, and hints of chocolate, earth, leather, tobacco, and a peppery spice. The fruit was certainly there, but it wasn't soft or delicate. To be honest, this was a great wine in terms of aroma, structure, and quality – but it wasn't easy drinking. It felt like hard work, and frankly, it's not my preferred style. I took half the bottle home. Then tonight at 6:00, I opened the remaining half – and wow, the nose was bursting with wild roses, violets, and powdery perfume. The palate was a pure delight: the tannins had turned incredibly silky, with black cherry and sour plum intertwined, finishing clean, sweet, and refreshing. Completely opened up. This wine, when closed, is deep, introverted, and grand in structure; once open, it becomes flamboyant and exuberant. From now on, I think the best approach for Chambertin is an 8-hour decanter breather, followed by glass-breathing to appreciate its evolution along the way.
Aug 7th, 2026
Côte de Nuits, Burgundy, France
