Looking for better value with a more elegant and refined Gevrey-Chambertin? This is the one.

After my last offer for 'Clos St Jacques,' today we turn to its neighbor, 'Lavaux Saint-Jacques'. It is another top Premier Cru vineyard, but the price is much better. Even though they are right next to each other, Lavaux is usually 40% to 50% cheaper from the same level producer.

©️wine-searcher

The 'Lavaux Saint-Jacques' vineyard is located right at the entrance of the Combe de Lavaux valley, it’s on a south to southeast-facing slope at an elevation of about 290 to 320 meters. The vineyard captures maximum sunlight during the day, but cool mountain breezes blow through at night. This creates a dramatic temperature shift that helps the Pinot Noir retain its incredible freshness and aromatic complexity.

The wine is usually found with a deep, rich color with bright aromas of red, black cherries and berries, mixed with hints of violets, earth, and leather. On the palate, it is usually medium to full-bodied and structured, but the tannins feel refined and silky, finishing with a clear, stony minerality. Compared to other neighboring vineyards, 'Lavaux Saint-Jacques' is more elegant and delicate, with great aging potential.

'Lavaux Saint-Jacques' is the largest Premier Cru vineyard in Gevrey-Chambertin, covering about 9.53 hectares with over 30 different owners. If you are looking for the best value producer, go for Domaine Harmand-Geoffroy, Domaine Tortochot, or Pierre Girardin. If you do not mind spending a bit more for the very best, Domaine Denis Mortet, Domaine Claude Dugat, and Domaine Dugat-Py are also highly recommended, as you still get great quality at the price.

2015 and 2019 are legendary vintages. They are basically perfect and a must-have for any collection. If you want something elegant to drink right now, go for the 2014 and 2017. The 2022 is a rising star that needs cellaring but will be well worth the wait.