Les Combottes, nestled south of Gevrey-Chambertin, halfway up the hillside beneath the majestic Les Monts Luisants, unveils its secrets in a gently sloping terrain (5–6% gradient). Situated at an altitude ranging from 271 to 282 meters, this east-facing lieu-dit boasts a diverse soil profile that evolves from east to west. To the east, the soil reveals a reddish-brown hue, enriched with angular-to-rounded limestone fragments, while the western part exudes richness with fine angular limestone gravel. Beneath the surface lies ocher-colored crinoidal limestone (calcaire à Entroques), brimming with remnants of ancient marine life, overlain by bedded limestone scree (grèzes litées) that blankets the upper slope. This Comblanchien limestone scree, comprised of fine angular gravel, completes the intricate tapestry of Les Combottes' terroir.
60% whole bunch. A rich crimson purple colour. There is vastly more fruit on the nose than the Gruenchers. Mildly reductive, but such a high-class fruit beneath. There is a magical intensity right across the palate, racy, finely balanced and above all persistent. Much more fruit than pepper to finish. Drink from 2027-2034.
The 2021 Gevrey-Chambertin Aux Combottes 1er Cru, which was made with 60% whole bunches, has a well-defined bouquet, quite tertiary in style with plenty of forest floor and pencil box aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with finely-chiselled tannins, one of the most mineral-driven in Dujac's range, precise and detailed, a pinch of spice, harmonious and quite persistent on the finish. A Combottes that feels like a Swiss watch - precise, precise, precise.
The 2021 Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Aux Combottes has turned out especially well this year, exhibiting aromas of sweet red berries, exotic spices, rose petals and blood orange. Medium to full-bodied, ample and fleshy, its enveloping core of fruit is framed by powdery structuring tannins.