2021 Chateau de Meursault Les Charmes Dessus Meursault 1er Cru Magnum 1.5L, Burgundy

A touch more yellow than the Perrières. A very fine nose, with the weight of Charmes but the sheer class of Perrières. Really impressive once again. With exceptional intensity to finish. You can't call this as coming from a frozen minor vintage, chortles Stéphane, with some reason. Drink from 2027-2032. Tasted Oct 2022.

93-96 points Jasper Morris MW insideburgundy.com

The nose is fruity, elegant, gourmand and offers a certain small power as well as a beautiful racy / flint side. It reveals notes of creamy white peach, pulpy apple and small notes of fresh quince combined with touches of mirabelle plum, zest, buttery hints as well as a subtle hint of lime zest and vanilla. The palate is fruity, fresh, chiselled, gourmande and offers juiciness, minerality, a good definition, a certain tension, precision, as well as an acidulous frame. On the palate, this wine expresses notes of pulpy/juicy vine peach, fleshy apple and small notes of lemon associated with touches of crunchy pineapple as well as hints of quince, zest, small exotic fruits as well as with fine milky hints or butter and delicate toasted hints. Good length. Beautiful persistence and suavity.

94-95 points vertedevin.com

Charmes Dessus is sourced from the upper part of the 1er just below the Clos des Perrieres , the parcel is next to the holding of Dominique Lafon, and the wine showcases extra energy and definition than the regular Charmes.

Château de Meursault Les Charmes Dessus Meursault 1er Cru is a magnificent expression of Meursault’s Premier Cru vineyards, offering both the elegance of Burgundy’s Chardonnay and the enhanced aging potential of the magnum format. Château de Meursault, with a history dating back to the 11th century, is renowned for producing wines that highlight the nuanced terroirs of Burgundy. Les Charmes Dessus, one of Meursault’s most prestigious Premier Cru vineyards, consistently delivers wines of exceptional depth, balance, and finesse.

Situated on the gentle slopes of Meursault, the Les Charmes Dessus vineyard benefits from limestone-rich soils, which contribute to the wine’s distinctive minerality and precision. The vineyard’s southeastern exposure ensures optimal ripening, capturing both richness and freshness in the Chardonnay grapes.

Winemaking at Château de Meursault, led by Stéphane Follin-Arbelet, emphasizes traditional Burgundian methods with a focus on quality and terroir expression. Grapes are hand-harvested, gently pressed, and fermented in French oak barrels, 30-40% of which are new. The wine is aged on fine lees for 12-18 months, adding layers of complexity and a creamy texture without overpowering the vibrant fruit profile.

In the glass, Château de Meursault Les Charmes Dessus Meursault 1er Cru reveals a brilliant golden hue. Aromas of ripe citrus, pear, and white peach mingle with notes of hazelnut, brioche, and a flinty minerality. On the palate, it is rich yet precise, with a creamy texture balanced by fresh acidity. The finish is long and refined, showcasing the hallmark elegance of the vineyard. The magnum format not only enhances the wine’s presentation but also promotes slower aging, allowing the wine to develop even greater complexity over time.

This exceptional Premier Cru is an ideal pairing for lobster, scallops, or roasted chicken with creamy sauces, and it makes an impressive centerpiece for any special occasion.