Domaine des Comtes Lafon   Meursault 1er Cru Charmes

2001 Meursault 1er Cru Charmes

By Domaine des Comtes Lafon

1999 Montrachet from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, Burgundy, France

The formidable 1999 Montrachet from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti dances on the palate with the poise and complexity that enthusiasts of fine Burgundy have come to revere. This particular vintage possesses an intricate narrative, etched into its profile by the climatic nuances of the year; a narrative that is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the Montrachet vines.

 

A Conflux of Nature's Serendipity

The year 1999 was one greeted with auspicious beginnings in Burgundy, as the weather gods bestowed sunshine and adequate precipitation in synchronous harmony—laying a pristine fabric upon which the Montrachet magic was woven. In stark contrast to previous vintages that faced challenges from erratic weather, 1999 was set to forge its own identity, showing off an admirable concentration and invigorating vigour.

 

Investment Worthy: A Vintage Blossoming With Age

Mindful investors will no doubt be aware of the illustrious reputation Domaine de la Romanee-Conti holds in the echelons of wine investment circles. The 1999 Montrachet encapsulates this prestige perfectly. As we delve into its layered complexity, we glimpse the remarkable balance—a taut acidity underpinning ripe stone fruits with whispers of hazelnut and brioche, embodying a finish that lingers like an old melody rediscovered. Its impeccable structure and generous fruit profile are harmonised by time, rendering it a compelling choice for those seeking vintages with graceful maturation trajectories.

In totality, sipping on the 1999 Montrachet is akin to attending a masterclass in viticulture serendipity; one that aptly reflects the epochal capabilities of its famed terroir. In this wine lies an embodied sophistication which is poised for long cellaring potential, ensuring its status as one of the most covetable vinous treasures for connoisseurs and investors alike.

Indeed, as we revisit this venerable vintage, we acknowledge not only its current exuberance but also its potential to unfurl greater dimensions with time—an attribute sharply aligning with strategic wine investment philosophies.

Current market price

$7,890.00

12x75cl

Highest score

94

POP score

337.86

Scores and tasting notes

93-95

The spectacular 2001 Meursault-Charmes reveals a boisterous nose of cloves, pears, spices, and white peaches. Hugely expansive, powerful, chewy-textured, and supple, this velvety wine slathers the palate with white pepper-laced apple compote whose flavors linger in its 45 second finish. Drink this beauty over the next 8 years. Dominique Lafon is on fire, in a zone, on top of his game. He’s never made better wines, and he improves with each passing vintage. Importers: Various including Classic Wine Imports, Boston, MA; tel: (617) 731-6644; Daniel Johnnes/Jeroboam Wines, New York, NY; (212) 625-2505; and Beaune Imports

Pierre Rovani - The Wine Advocate, 29 June 2003

Vintage performance