The 2016 Faiveley Chambertin Clos de Bèze Grand Cru is a notable Pinot Noir originating from the prestigious Chambertin Clos de Bèze sub-appellation in Gevrey Chambertin, Burgundy, France. Produced by Domaine Faiveley, this red wine exhibits a robust profile with an alcohol content of 13.5%.
Wine Spectator awarded this vintage an impressive score of 98, highlighting its rich and powerful nature. The review describes it as "backed by flashy oak and beefy tannins that sandwich the flavors of black cherry, blackberry, licorice, iron and tobacco." The reviewer, B.S., also noted its concentration and vibrant, long finish, recommending it for enjoyment between 2024 and 2050.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate gave it a slightly lower score of 95 but still praised its quality. William Kelley described it as "full-bodied, rich and fleshy, with velvety structuring tannins, succulent acids and a long, expansive finish." The wine exhibits aromas of cassis, grilled meats, pungent spices, and a savory note reminiscent of oyster sauce. Kelley mentions that while it may not be as multidimensional as Faiveley's Ouvrées Rodin bottling, it remains a very fine example of Clos de Bèze.
Jasper Morris from Inside Burgundy also rated it 95, noting its "rich full purple" color and "massive intensity" on the palate. Morris described the wine as "concentrated but sombre," with a very backward nature. He pointed out that it "perhaps lacks precision but what an onslaught of concentrated fruit," and mentioned a slightly raw edge, calling it a "muscular interpretation of Clos de Bèze."
Decanter's review, dated for 2024, offered a score of 93. It described the wine as opening with "notes of rose petal, red and black fruit and rich soil, framed by expensive new oak." On the palate, it is "quite full-bodied, with a fine chassis of tannin and good amplitude, as well as nice energy," though the reviewer noted it only lacks a bit of concentration.
In summary, the 2016 Faiveley Chambertin Clos de Bèze Grand Cru is a powerful and intense Pinot Noir, lauded for its rich flavors and robust structure. While some reviewers noted minor drawbacks such as a lack of precision or concentration, the overall consensus is that this is an exceptionally fine wine, particularly recommended for aging.