Dom. Gerard Seguin Gevrey-Chambertin Les Crais 2023

Domaine Gérard Seguin – Gevrey-Chambertin 'Les Crais' 2023

The Tender Gateway to Gevrey

In 2026, the 2023 'Les Crais' is making a name for itself as a wine of "instant pleasure." While Gevrey-Chambertin is often associated with brooding power and firm tannins, this specific lieu-dit (named vineyard) is prized for its precocity and aromatic delicacy. In the 2023 vintage, which offered generous fruit and a supple structure, 'Les Crais' is a masterclass in approachable elegance.

The Terroir: Gravel & Grace

• The Vibe: If La Justice is a cool cathedral, Les Crais is a vibrant bistro terrace. It is bright, welcoming, and easy to love.

• The Location: Situated in the "Crais" area, characterized by its gravelly soils. These well-drained, pebbly grounds allow the vines to ripen early, producing a wine that reveals its charms far sooner than its "noble elders"—the Grand Crus.

• The Vines: Sourced from 40 to 50-year-old vines, ensuring that while the wine is "tender," it still possesses the depth and concentration of established roots.

• The Pedigree: Some experts believe 'Les Crais' is worthy of a Premier Cru designation due to its consistent quality and unique mineral signature.

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

In early 2026, the 2023 'Les Crais' is showing a "beautiful ruby-red color" and an intense, fruit-forward personality.

• The Nose: Intense and highly aromatic. It leads with a basket of fresh red fruits—think wild raspberry, red cherry, and strawberry—complemented by a light, integrated vanilla note from its time in French oak.

• The Palate: Silky and approachable. The attack is soft and juicy, with the red fruit flavors mirroring the nose. The tannins are tender and fine-grained, lacking the "rough edges" sometimes found in younger Gevrey.

• The Finish: Clean and elegant. It leaves a lingering impression of sweet red berries and a subtle, toasty spice.

📋 Technical Snapshot

Best Paired With:

• The Casual Match: Roasted Chicken with thyme or a simple pork tenderloin; the wine’s fruit and acidity are natural companions for white meats.

• The Bistro Pair: Duck breast with a light berry jus; the "tender" tannins of the wine match the texture of the duck perfectly.

• The Simple Joy: Charcuterie and a selection of mild cheeses; this is a "convivial" wine meant for sharing with friends over a meal.

Pro Tip: In 2026, 'Les Crais' is the ideal Gevrey-Chambertin for those who don't want to wait a decade for their wine to soften. It does not require a long decant—20 minutes in the glass is plenty. Serve at 15–16°C to keep the red fruit notes "vibrant and lively."