The 2018 Domaine Denis Mortet Chambolle-Musigny Premier Cru Aux Beaux Bruns is a magnificent Premier Cru Burgundy from one of the Côte de Nuits’ most revered domaines. Situated just below Les Gruenchers and Les Groseilles, Aux Beaux Bruns is a relatively small Premier Cru vineyard that consistently produces wines combining the floral elegance of Chambolle-Musigny with a little more structure and depth than many neighbouring sites. Domaine Denis Mortet, now led by Arnaud Mortet, has established itself as one of Burgundy’s benchmark producers, and the outstanding 2018 vintage delivered a wine of exceptional ripeness, concentration and balance while preserving remarkable freshness.
The nose is intensely perfumed and beautifully layered, revealing aromas of ripe cherry, wild raspberry and redcurrant alongside peony, rose petal and candied orange peel. As the wine opens, notes of sandalwood, forest floor and sweet baking spices emerge, complemented by hints of black tea, cedar and crushed limestone. The aromatic profile is vibrant and expressive, displaying both the generosity of the warm 2018 vintage and the unmistakable perfume that defines Chambolle-Musigny. William Kelley described the bouquet as "soaring from the glass" with exceptional purity and floral lift.
On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with velvety tannins, lively natural acidity and remarkable harmony. Layers of red cherry, raspberry and wild strawberry unfold across the palate, supported by subtle spice, savoury complexity and a finely etched mineral backbone. The warmth of the 2018 growing season provides generous fruit and a supple, fleshy texture, while the vineyard’s limestone soils maintain freshness and precision. The tannins are beautifully polished, leading to a long, elegant and persistent finish marked by lingering notes of red fruits, peony, citrus zest and chalky minerality. The style is graceful yet substantial, offering a superb balance between immediate charm and long-term ageing potential.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is an outstanding choice for collectors and lovers of fine Burgundy seeking one of Chambolle-Musigny’s hidden Premier Cru gems. Compared to the more famous Les Amoureuses, Aux Beaux Bruns offers a slightly fuller, more structured profile while retaining the village’s hallmark floral perfume and silky texture. The outstanding 2018 vintage has produced a wine that is already beginning to show beautiful harmony, yet it still possesses the depth and structure to evolve gracefully for many years. Drink from now with 1–2 hours of decanting or cellar confidently through to 2040 and beyond. Perfect with duck breast, roast pigeon, veal, mushroom risotto, truffle-infused dishes or the finest French cuisine.
