The wines of Gérard Raphet are a Burgundy lover’s Burgundy. Combottes is one of Gevery’s best Premier Cus as it borders Grand Cru Latricières-Chambertin in Gevrey and Grand Cru Clos de la Roche in Morey-Saint-Denis, sharing similar soils and exposition; in effect, it is surrounded on all sides by grand cru vineyards. Rapet only makes one barrel (about 24 cases) of this old vine (80 years) stunner. Aromas of forest floor, peony, clove and a hint of white truffle segue to an incredibly seductive palate with pristine Pinot fruit and a strong mineral drive framed by good acidity and chiseled tannins. This is so damn delicious now, it will be hard to keep your hands off it, but…there’s much more to come over the next 10-20 years with proper cellaring. Very, very limited.
