The 2022 Sylvain Cathiard Chambolle-Musigny 'Le Clos de l'Orme' is a stunning example of the power and elegance that can be found in the village of Chambolle-Musigny. Sourced from just 0.427 hectares of vines, predominantly planted in 1935 (85%) with the remainder from 1992 (15%), this wine comes from an exceptional plot situated near the village, just below the renowned Premier Cru Les Charmes. With its limited production and exceptional quality, it embodies the depth and concentration often associated with higher-level wines, yet in the approachable format of a village-level offering.
In the glass, this Chambolle-Musigny presents an attractive plump purple colour, hinting at its rich, dark-fruited character. The nose is intense and fragrant, with an array of vibrant aromas that blend dark fruit, floral notes, and subtle oak spice. The palate is softer in fruit style, showcasing a touch more influence from the oak, which adds complexity without overwhelming the wine's finesse. It’s a voluptuous wine with a luscious mouthfeel, yet its structure remains refined and balanced. The finish is fine and long, with a persistent, lingering note that invites further exploration.
This wine is a rare find at the village level, offering a concentration and depth that are usually reserved for more prestigious crus. Drink from 2026 to 2032 to fully appreciate its evolving complexity and the remarkable balance between fruit, oak, and acidity.
Maker
Sylvain Cathiard is a respected figure in Burgundy, known for his exceptional approach to both viticulture and winemaking. The Domaine, originally founded by his grandfather in the 1930s, has grown in both size and reputation, especially under Sylvain’s leadership, which he passed on to his son, Sebastien, in 2011. Sebastien, along with his wife, now leads the Domaine with a deep commitment to organic practices, although they have not sought certification. The family’s vineyards are spread across some of the finest parcels in Burgundy, including Vosne-Romanée, Nuits-St-Georges, Chambolle-Musigny, and a prestigious plot in Romanée-St-Vivant.
The estate is renowned for producing wines that showcase the unique terroirs of each appellation with precision, elegance, and finesse. Sebastien’s hands-off approach to winemaking allows the vineyards’ natural expression to shine through in every bottle. The wines are known for their purity, balance, and complexity, with a focus on achieving harmony between fruit, oak, and acidity. The family’s meticulous vineyard management and minimal intervention in the cellar have resulted in a reputation for producing wines that are as true to their terroir as possible.
Philosophy
Sebastien Cathiard’s winemaking philosophy is centred around respecting the land and allowing the natural qualities of the vineyards to take precedence. With an organic approach to viticulture, Sebastien ensures that the vineyards are in harmony with their environment, allowing each grape to express its full potential. In the winery, Sebastien prefers a minimalist approach, letting the natural yeasts drive fermentation and avoiding fining or filtration. The wines are aged in a combination of new and one-year-old oak barrels, with the aim of enhancing the wine’s structure and complexity without overshadowing its natural character.
Sebastien is dedicated to producing wines that are balanced, elegant, and capable of ageing gracefully. By reducing the percentage of new oak and focusing on careful vineyard management, he has refined his style to emphasise the purity of the fruit and the expression of the terroir. The wines of Domaine Sylvain Cathiard are celebrated for their finesse, complexity, and ability to evolve over time, offering a glimpse into the future of Burgundy winemaking.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Vibrant, Dark Fruit, Floral, Oak Spice
An alluring perfume of vibrant dark fruit, floral undertones, and delicate oak spice. The bouquet is intense and concentrated, reflecting the depth and quality of this exceptional village-level wine.
Palate
Lush, Soft Fruit, Oak Influence
On the palate, the wine is lush and round with soft, ripe fruit flavours that are perfectly complemented by the subtle influence of oak. The wine’s texture is smooth and voluptuous, with a rich mouthfeel that remains balanced and refined.
Finish
Fine, Long, Persistent
The finish is fine and persistent, with a length that continues to evolve, showcasing the harmonious integration of fruit, oak, and acidity. The wine’s balance and elegance are evident, leaving a lasting impression that invites you to savour its complexity over time.
The Finer Details
Style – Red Wine
Varietal – Pinot Noir
Country – France
Region – Burgundy
Sub-Region – Chambolle-Musigny
Vintage – 2022
Bottle Size – 750ml
ABV – 13%
Other – Organic Practices
