Domaine Comte de Vogue   Bourgogne Blanc

1997 Bourgogne Blanc

By Domaine Comte de Vogue

1997 Meursault les Perrieres from Domaine des Comtes Lafon, Burgundy

The 1997 vintage in Burgundy was one that provided immediate appeal and a collage of nuanced complexity well-suited for discerning collectors. The undeniable finesse of the 1997 Meursault les Perrieres from Domaine des Comtes Lafon stands as testament to the singular talents at this storied domaine. My musings on this particular bottling come with years of deep appreciation for its journey from vine to cellar to glass.

 

Investment-Worthy Sophistication

Investors seeking to diversify their portfolios with refined Burgundian whites need look no further than this splendid offering. Characteristic of the Meursault terroir, yet expressing the unique conditions of '97, the wine balances opulence with poise. As Domaine des Comtes Lafon is one of the luminaries in Burgundian viticulture, their commitment to organic practices has paid dividends in this vintage, particularly in the les Perrieres vineyard.

 

Climatic Serendipity

The growing season preceding harvest in 1997 was marked by spells of warmth which seemed to imbue the grapes with an added concentration of flavor. Nevertheless, careful handling maintained the wines' famed minerality—the backbone of Meursault's charm. In your glass, expect a harmonious interplay between honeyed aromas and citrus zest entwined with subtle hints of toasted almonds, derived from judicious oak maturation.

Tasting this Meursault today reveals an impressive longevity, with its rich yet ethereal texture unfolding layers that speak to both the might and elegance that the best of Burgundy can muster. Precise acidity provides a scaffold for the tertiary notes to dance upon—a spectacle that continues to evolve even two decades on.

For those vested in the procurement and enjoyment of truly investable wines, inclusion of the 1997 Meursault les Perrieres from Domaine des Comtes Lafon into one's collection is not merely a sensible decision but a profound narrative awaiting exploration. With its exceptional balance and delightful complexity, it stands as a remarkable representation of both its illustrious producer and an extraordinary vintage.

Current market price

$6,500.00

12x75cl

Highest score

90

POP score

389

Scores and tasting notes

89-92

The 1997 Bourgogne Blanc (2000 bottles were produced) reveals smoky, toasty, and minerally aromas, intermingled with candied lemons and fresh white fruits. This is a thick, medium to full-bodied, broad, and sensual wine, crammed with poached pear, hazelnut, stone, lemon grass, and tropical fruit (some banana) flavors. It is a forward, in-your-face, and luxurious wine that will require drinking over the next 5-6 years. Bravo! Importer: Dreyfus Ashby, New York, NY; tel (212) 818-0770.

Pierre Rovani - The Wine Advocate, 29 October 1999

Vintage performance