2022 Chateau de Meursault Les Charmes Dessus Meursault 1er Cru, Burgundy

A pure even lemon yellow. The bouquet has a class which the straight bottling cannot aspire to. I keep going back to it. To have this class while retaining the body of a fine Charms is impressive. A broad base of pure white fruit, perhaps just a touch too oaky for the moment, but that is the house style. Drink from 2030-2037. Tasted Oct 2023.

92-95 points Jasper Morris MW insidebugundy.com

Château de Meursault Les Charmes Dessus Meursault 1er Cru is a distinguished white Burgundy that exemplifies the elegance and richness of the Meursault appellation. Château de Meursault, with its origins tracing back to the 11th century, has built a reputation for crafting exceptional wines that honor the unique terroirs of Burgundy. The Les Charmes Dessus vineyard, a Premier Cru site, is one of Meursault's most celebrated, known for producing wines with finesse, depth, and age-worthy potential.

"Les Charmes Dessus" refers to the upper section of the Les Charmes vineyard, where the soils are composed of limestone and clay, ideal for Chardonnay. This terroir imparts a distinctive mineral character and a refined structure to the wine. The vineyard’s southeastern exposure ensures optimal sunlight, enhancing ripeness while preserving the grape's natural acidity.

Under the guidance of estate manager Stéphane Follin-Arbelet, the winemaking process is precise and respectful of tradition. Grapes are hand-harvested, gently pressed, and fermented in French oak barrels, 30-40% new. The wine is then aged on fine lees for 12-18 months, a technique that enhances texture and complexity.

In the glass, Château de Meursault Les Charmes Dessus Meursault 1er Cru displays a brilliant golden hue. The nose is a captivating blend of citrus fruits, white peach, and pear, with undertones of hazelnut, vanilla, and a hint of flinty minerality. On the palate, it is creamy yet vibrant, with a seamless balance of richness and acidity. The finish is long and elegant, echoing the wine’s layered flavors and terroir-driven character. This Premier Cru pairs beautifully with lobster, seared scallops, or creamy poultry dishes.