The 2021 Domaine Faiveley Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru Lavaux Saint-Jacques is one of the crown jewels of the Gevrey-Chambertin appellation and a benchmark Premier Cru from one of Burgundy’s most historic estates. Lavaux Saint-Jacques is widely regarded as one of Gevrey’s top three Premier Cru vineyards, alongside Clos Saint-Jacques and Les Cazetiers, with many critics considering it worthy of Grand Cru status. Acquired by Domaine Faiveley in 2013, the estate’s south-facing parcel sits on fossil-rich limestone and clay soils, producing Pinot Noir of exceptional perfume, structure and longevity. The cooler, classically styled 2021 vintage has resulted in a wine of outstanding purity, freshness and terroir expression.
The nose is intensely aromatic and beautifully layered, revealing aromas of red cherry, wild strawberry and redcurrant alongside rose petals, violets and delicate Asian spices. As the wine opens, notes of sous-bois, cedar and forest floor emerge, complemented by hints of black tea, crushed limestone and subtle truffle. The aromatic profile is remarkably elegant and expressive, combining vibrant red fruit with floral lift and mineral precision. Neal Martin described it as one of his favourite Faiveley wines of the vintage, highlighting its expressive bouquet of wild strawberry, redcurrant and woodland notes.
On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with finely chiselled tannins, vibrant natural acidity and exceptional balance. Layers of red cherry, raspberry and cranberry unfold across the palate, supported by savoury spice, earthy complexity and a beautifully defined limestone backbone. Unlike the richer 2020 or 2022 vintages, the cooler 2021 season emphasises finesse, precision and transparency, allowing the vineyard’s character to shine through. The tannins are silky yet structured, leading to a long, focused and persistent finish marked by lingering notes of red fruits, floral perfume, crushed stone and subtle savoury spice. The style is graceful, energetic and unmistakably Gevrey-Chambertin, combining elegance with the underlying power for which Lavaux Saint-Jacques is renowned. William Kelley described the wine as medium to full-bodied, supple, lively and beautifully balanced with a penetrating finish.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is an exceptional choice for collectors seeking one of Gevrey-Chambertin’s finest Premier Cru wines. Compared to Les Cazetiers, which is often broader and more muscular, Lavaux Saint-Jacques offers greater perfume, finer tannins and more immediate elegance while still possessing remarkable ageing potential. The 2021 vintage is particularly appealing for lovers of classical Burgundy, delivering freshness, purity and mineral precision rather than sheer power. It is already captivating with 1–2 hours of decanting, but its true complexity will continue to unfold over the next 15–20 years. Drink from 2028 onwards or cellar confidently through to 2045 and beyond. Perfect with roast pigeon, duck breast, venison, beef Wellington, wild mushrooms, truffle-infused dishes or the finest French cuisine.
