Domaine des Lambrays was established in 1363 yet it was only in 1981 that this climat was finally promoted to Grand Cru. At 8.8 hectares, this is the largest Grand Cru parcel in Burgundy under one proprietor.
Winemaker Thierry Brouin has been in charge since 1979. The vineyards are run on more or less organic lines, with no chemical anti-rot sprays, and ploughing of the soil by horse. In the cellar, he likes to use the majority of the stems, favours punching down over pumping over, and prefers to restrain the amount of new oak – around 50% for the grand cru.
Domaine des Lambrays produces wines which possess balance, power and finesse and which fully live up to their Grand Cru status.
92-94 Points Allen Meadows
(produced from two large parcels of differing vine age – one that is approximately two-thirds of the blend and is now 50+ years of age and a second, smaller group of vines that is approximately 25+ years of age) Here too there is gentle wood setting off a similar if more complex nose that displays more prominent floral and spice scents. There is very good volume to the utterly delicious medium weight and wonderfully vibrant flavors that possess really fine delineation before culminating in a mineral-inflected, saline and focused finish. I very much admire the sleek mouth feel as well as the impeccable balance. Lovely juice that is moderately structured and a bit less youthfully austere than usual. Drink: 2025+
92-94 Points Robert Parker Wine Advocate
The 2013 Clos des Lambrays is whole bunch as usual (whereas the Morey Saint Denis is destemmed) and raised in 50% new oak. Thierry Brouin assembled my sample from four barrels scattered around the cellar, since the ventilation at one end creates variance in maturation. It has a refined bouquet with crisp leafy red berry fruit, harmonious and gaining intensity in the glass, fine mineralité underneath. The palate is well balanced with fine tannins and very well-judged acidity. This feels very harmonious with more energy and tension than the 2012, structured with a bright and vivacious finish that lingers long in the mouth. This is a classy Clos des Lambrays 2013 that should age with panache.