Wines Charmes-Chambertin Domaine Joseph Roty - Tres Vieilles Vignes - 1991

Viniou Reviews

This 1991 Charmes-Chambertin Cuvée Tres Vieilles Vignes from Domaine Joseph Roty is a magnificent example of the expressive potential of Pinot Noir grown on exceptional Burgundy terroir. Exclusively from very old vines—'Tres Vieilles Vignes'—this Grand Cru bottling reveals remarkable complexity and a profound depth that comes with age and meticulous viticulture. The 1991 vintage, marked by a cool and classic growing season, favoured elegant structure and refined aromatics. Joseph Roty, renowned for his traditional winemaking, employs hand harvesting, gentle extraction and careful maturation in oak, often using a significant proportion of new barrels. The wine typically displays an intricate bouquet of wild cherry, blackcurrant, sous-bois, dried rose petals with hints of truffle, spice and earthy undertones. With over three decades of evolution, tertiary notes such as tobacco, leather, and forest floor complement the persistent fruit core, all supported by silky yet still lively tannins.

La Côte de Nuits, and particularly the Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru vineyard, enjoys a cool continental climate with sufficient sunlight and well-drained limestone-clay soils famed for nurturing Pinot Noir of power and finesse. The region’s rich winemaking heritage dates back to monastic cultivation in the Middle Ages, and today it continues to yield some of the world’s most sought-after red wines, defined by their purity, longevity and sense of place.

Pairing this mature Grand Cru calls for nuanced, delicate dishes. Traditional Burgundian fare such as coq au vin or a classic boeuf bourguignon accentuate the wine's earthy complexity, while roasted duck breast with a cherry reduction would echo its depth of fruit. For a vegetarian option, consider wild mushroom risotto or a truffle-infused potato gratin to harmonise with its savoury notes. A fine selection of aged cheeses, notably Brillat-Savarin or Époisses, also makes an excellent match.

For optimal enjoyment, serve at 16-18°C. Decant gently for around 30 minutes to allow the mature aromatics to unfold, and select large Burgundy glasses to showcase its bouquet and texture. Given the age, handle the bottle delicately and watch for sediment when pouring.