The Emperor’s Favorite Wine, historic fact
Par Nolwenn Quiot-Ducarre
In the history of wine, certain grands crus owe their fame as much to their quality as to the figures who celebrated them. Chambertin is one such wine. And among its most illustrious admirers, one name stands out through the centuries: Napoleon Bonaparte.
The Emperor enjoyed this Burgundy grand cru almost daily. According to several historical accounts, he drank it regularly—often diluted with water—to accompany his meals and sustain him during his long military campaigns.
So much so that his personal valet carried several cases of Chambertin with him whenever he traveled.
🍇 Why this wine?
Chambertin is renowned for its power, depth, and structure—qualities that seem to perfectly match Napoleon’s temperament: intense, rigorous, and strategic.
At the time, fine wines did not yet enjoy the international recognition they have today. But the Emperor’s fondness for this wine played a major role in its future prominence.
In the 19th century, as Europe was rebuilding itself after the Napoleonic Wars, Chambertin retained this imperial aura. Its image became that of a noble, powerful wine, reserved for special occasions.
This link between power and wine reminds us how much the prestige of wine has often been built within political and aristocratic circles.
Even today, tasting a Chambertin means savoring a piece of that history. A wine of character, steeped in history.
📚 To learn more: Fondation Napoléon (Historical archives on Napoleon’s dietary and wine-drinking habits) or Le Firgaro – Article
Team V&CO
