In the heart of the illustrious Côte de Nuit in Burgundy, amidst the hallowed vineyards of Chambolle-Musigny, lies a winemaking treasure trove – the Ghislaine Barthod estate. Here, in this pristine terroir, Ghislaine Barthod herself, a maestro of her craft, tends to 6 hectares of vineyards, primarily graced by the prestigious AOC Chambolle-Musigny. These vineyards, with their average vine age of over 30 years, yield grapes of the most modest nature, perfect for crafting exceptional wines.
Historically, the estate’s roots trace back to the late 1920s when it bore the name Noëllat-Barthod. In the 1950s, Gaston Barthod and his daughter, Ghislaine, steered the ship. However, the estate, now under Ghislaine’s stewardship since 1986, found itself sailing uncharted waters when her father passed away in 1999. Remarkably, the 2018 vintage bore the signature of Clément Barthod, Ghislaine’s son, as he assumed the mantle of winemaking excellence.
Although the Ghislaine Barthod estate may be petite in size, it casts an expansive shadow upon the wine world with its unwavering focus on AOC Chambolle-Musigny. Beyond the Village cuvée, the estate boasts no less than nine Premier Crus within Chambolle, a village graced by a total of 24 such prestigious designations. These Premier Crus, each unique and beguiling in its own right, include Les Baudes, Aux Beaux Bruns, Les Charmes, Les Châtelots, Aux Combottes, Les Cras, Les Véroilles, Les Fuées, and, last but not least, Les Gruenchers.
The Chambolle-Musigny 1er Crus of Les Fuées, Cras, Baudes, and Véroilles wrap their loving arms around the revered Grand Cru Les Bonnes Mares. In doing so, they offer a tantalizing preview of the grace and density that define the Grand Cru they encircle. Meanwhile, the Premier Crus of Les Charmes and Les Châtelots, nestled at the heart of the Chambolle vineyard, exude a seductive allure, encapsulating the quintessential Chambolle spirit.
At Domaine Ghislaine Barthod, winemaking is a delicate art. The grapes undergo partial destemming, and only the purest, natural yeasts are harnessed to guide the fermentation process. Aging is a meticulous affair, with barrels resting for nearly 20 months, with a judicious 20 to 25% infusion of new oak. These meticulous practices ensure that the wines bear the hallmark of their origin, offering a journey into the terroir’s very soul.
Each of the Chambolle-Musigny Crus from the Ghislaine Barthod estate is endowed with a distinctive personality, waiting to be unveiled. After aging gracefully for several years, typically spanning between 7 to 12 years, these magnificent Pinot Noirs reveal a bouquet that dances with floral and spicy notes. The palate is a tapestry of refinement and complexity, a testament to the craftsmanship of Ghislaine and her team.
Under Ghislaine’s expert guidance, the estate has gained international acclaim, earning its rightful place as one of the premier representatives of Chambolle-Musigny’s remarkable wines. Yet, due to the limited size of their vineyards and the relentless demand from connoisseurs, these bottles are a rarity, making them all the more coveted.
For those seeking to explore the delights of Burgundian Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Aligoté, the region beckons with a plethora of distinguished estates. Names such as Anne and François Gros, Armand Rousseau, Arlaud, Chantal Lescure, Chapuis & Chapuis, Coche Dury, Dujac, Emmanuel Rouget, Georges Roumier, and Mongeard Mugneret resonate through the annals of wine history. These estates, like the Ghislaine Barthod domain, craft wines that are nothing short of liquid poetry.
For those eager to savor the exquisite offerings from the Ghislaine Barthod estate, Vins & Millésimes stands as a reliable gateway. As a specialist in the online sale of aged vintages and Grands Crus, they present a wide selection of bottles and magnums, each carrying the hallmark of Ghislaine’s expertise. Purchasing wine online couldn’t be simpler: with a well-stocked inventory, prompt shipping within 48 to 72 hours, and unbeatable prices, wine enthusiasts can embark on an exploration of some of the finest Burgundian treasures.
In conclusion, the Ghislaine Barthod estate is a beacon of winemaking excellence in the heart of Chambolle-Musigny, Burgundy. With their commitment to crafting wines that capture the essence of the terroir, their Premier Crus offer an enchanting glimpse into the magic of this renowned region. Ghislaine Barthod and her team, with their expertise and dedication, have elevated the estate to international acclaim. For those fortunate enough to secure a bottle from this limited production, it’s an opportunity to savor the poetry of Chambolle-Musigny in every glass. As you embark on your own wine journey, don’t miss the chance to explore the treasures crafted by this illustrious estate – a testament to the artistry and dedication of Ghislaine Barthod.
Address: 4 Rle du Lavoir, 21220 Chambolle-Musigny, France
The Wines
2005 Chambolle-Musigny Les Cras
The 2005 Chambolle-Musigny Les Cras by Domaine Ghislaine Barthod unfurls its deep, ruby robe, exuding an inviting aura. On the nose, delicate notes of ripe red berries and violets dance gracefully, followed by a hint of earthiness. The palate is a revelation of finesse, with silky tannins that cradle flavors of red currants, wild strawberries, and a subtle touch of forest floor. This vintage displays excellent aging potential, promising even more enchantment with time.
2005 Chambolle-Musigny Aux Beaux Bruns
The 2005 Chambolle-Musigny Aux Beaux Bruns from Domaine Ghislaine Barthod showcases a vivid garnet hue, hinting at its remarkable maturity. The bouquet is an intricate interplay of dark cherries, rose petals, and a whisper of exotic spices. On the palate, it unfolds with grace, revealing layers of black fruit, raspberry compote, and a touch of underbrush. The wine’s well-integrated tannins and vibrant acidity make for a harmonious and enduring experience.
2002 Chambolle-Musigny Les Cras
The 2002 Chambolle-Musigny Les Cras from Domaine Ghislaine Barthod presents itself as a testament to the art of aging. Its garnet robe exudes a mature allure, inviting the senses to explore. The bouquet is an enchanting mix of dried red berries, dried rose petals, and hints of forest floor, showcasing the wine’s evolution. On the palate, it delivers a symphony of dried cherries, leather, and a touch of spiced tea. With its graceful, resolved tannins, this vintage embodies the wisdom of the time, making it a true Burgundian gem.
