2012 Corton-Charlemagne
By Bonneau du Martray
2012 Corton-Charlemagne from Bonneau du Martray, Burgundy, France
Interlaced with the storied history and tradition of Burgundy, the 2012 Corton-Charlemagne from Bonneau du Martray emerges as a testament to the fortitude of this hallowed terroir. Each sip weaves a narrative of a vintage where climatic challenges were embraced to create an expression that resonates with vigour and poise.
The Enigma of the 2012 Vintage
With adverse conditions persisting throughout the growing season, 2012 was poised to be a demanding year for Burgundian winemakers. Yet, it is precisely these tribulations that have sculpted the 2012 Corton-Charlemagne into an embodiment of resilience. There is a magnetic allure to this wine's structure—an intimate dance between formidable acidity and profound depth. One appreciates how Bonneau du Martray has meticulously coaxed both power and finesse from adversity.
On the palate, the wine unfurls with a kaleidoscope of layered complexities - citrus underpinned by subtle notes of almond and flint. Oak is present but not domineering, providing a soft cradle for the mineral-rich character so emblematic of Corton-Charlemagne's limestone soils. The beauty lies in the balance; the depth coupled with freshness suggests a promising evolution ahead.
A Prudent Investment for Aficionados
For enthusiasts considering this vintage as an addition to their investment portfolio, note that the 2012 Corton-Charlemagne from Bonneau du Martray holds promise in both its present allure and its potential longevity. Its poised equilibrium mirrors the investor's quest for a wine that captivates now yet guarantees grace with age.
To immerse oneself in this Burgundian offering is to understand the majesty of Corton-Charlemagne under the hand of a master. The 2012 vintage, though begotten of hardship, delivers an undeniably noble narrative worthy of any discerning collector’s compendium. It beckons with subtle charms that will unfold for years to come, reinforcing why this emblematic parcel remains at the pinnacle of white Burgundy investment prospects.
Current market price
$7,570.00
12x75cl
Highest score
91
POP score
411.82
Scores and tasting notes
Tasted blind at the Burgundy 2012 tasting in Beaune. The 2012 Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru from Bonneau du Martray was showing signs of reduction on the nose but it is not as combined as I might have feared. The palate has a touch of bitterness on the entry, disjointed compared to its peers and yet Bonneau du Martray is often like that in its youth, coming together with bottle age. I scored this quite severely and yet one could still detect a great wine in the making, albeit one of the next decade, not this.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 29 October 2015