Dom. Gerard Seguin Gevrey-Chambertin 1er cru Craipillot 2023

Domaine Gérard Seguin – Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru 'Craipillot' 2023

The Elegant Heart of Gevrey

In 2026, the 2023 'Craipillot' is being celebrated as one of the most charming and accessible Premier Crus of the vintage. Located literally on the Seguin family's doorstep at the northern edge of the village, this wine offers a "weightless" intensity that is rare for Gevrey-Chambertin. While the 2023 season was solar and warm, this specific site—at the mouth of the Combe de Lavaux—retained a remarkable saline freshness.

The Terroir: Limestone & Old Vine Heritage

• The Vibe: If Lavaux St-Jacques is a brooding fortress, Craipillot is a sunlit courtyard. It is powerful yet emphasizes finesse and aromatic lift over raw muscle.

• The Location: A 0.9-hectare parcel situated at the foot of the famed Clos Saint-Jacques. The name "Craipillot" likely refers to the stony, gravelly nature of the ground.

• The Vines: This is a true "Vieilles Vignes" cuvée. Most of the vines are over 90 years old, with some exceeding 100 years. These ancient roots provide a natural depth and complexity that defines the Seguin style.

• The Soil: Well-drained marly debris and pebbles. This "bony" soil ensures the wine remains lively and mineral-driven.

🍷 2023 Tasting Notes (The "Vibe" in 2026)

In 2026, the 2023 vintage is showing an "attractive, relaxed ethos." It is a regal wine that manages to be both concentrated and diaphanous.

• The Nose: An intense and perfumed bouquet. It leads with vibrant red cherry and forest raspberry, followed by the vineyard’s signature notes of liquorice and violets. There is a subtle, high-toned floral quality that makes it feel very "stylish."

• The Palate: Lively and fleshy. The mid-palate is supple and "gourmand," filled with juicy red fruit. The tannins are firm but exceptionally silky, integrated with a refreshing acidity that gives the wine a "rectilinear tension."

• The Finish: Delicate and persistent. It leaves a lingering impression of sweet spices, rose petals, and a distinct chalky minerality.

📋 Technical Snapshot

Best Paired With:

• The Classic Match: Roast Duck or Goose; the wine’s acidity and red fruit are the traditional partners for rich poultry.

• The Savory Pair: Wood pigeon salad or veal medallions with wild mushrooms; the wine's forest floor notes harmonize beautifully with earthy flavors.

• The Cheese: Ami du Chambertin or matured Comté; the wine's structure can stand up to these regional favorites.

Pro Tip: In 2026, 'Craipillot' is already showing plenty of charm. To highlight its floral aromatics and "weightless" feel, decant it for 60 minutes before serving. Aim for a service temperature of 16°C. It is an ideal 1er Cru for those who want Gevrey complexity without the aggressive tannins often found in younger wines.