Domaine des Comtes Lafon   Meursault 1er Cru Charmes

2003 Meursault 1er Cru Charmes

By Domaine des Comtes Lafon

2001 Montrachet from Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Burgundy, France

The millennium brought with it a constellation of expectations and the start of a new chapter for Burgundy's finest crus. In this enthralling journey through time and terroir, our focus narrows to the 2001 Montrachet from Domaine de la Romanée-Conti—a label akin to royalty in the world of fine wines. This particular vintage captures not only the soul of its storied vineyards but also the mercurial essence of that year’s unique climatic nuances.

 

An Oenophile's Treasure

The 2001 vintage was one cloaked in unpredictability, with a growing season defined by distinct shifts in weather patterns. A cold winter followed by an unsteady spring set the stage for a vintage that demanded both vigilance and fortitude from the viticulturists at Domaine de la Romanée-Conti. Perhaps it is this very dance with the whims of nature that gives the 2001 Montrachet its transcendent character—an investment-worthy beacon for collectors seeking to anchor their portfolio with a wine of pronounced heritage and finesse.

 

Unveiling the Vintage's Character

A tasting of the 2001 Montrachet reveals a harmonious balance between opulence and precision. The nose is an intoxicating bouquet; floral essences fuse with honeyed almonds, a whisper of vanilla bean, and nuanced citrus zest. On the palate, one finds an exhilarating tension—rich yet dartingly agile—with notes of ripe pears and a subtle undercurrent of mineralogy that speaks to Montrachet's cherished limestone soils.

The age has cared graciously for this wine, allowing its layers to unfold with an elegant complexity while preserving an extraordinary freshness that defies its years. The finish, long and reverent, leaves ethereal echoes of toasted brioche and spiced stone fruits—a reverie of flavours emblematic of this unparalleled Burgundian white.

In amalgamation, the 2001 Montrachet from Domaine de la Romanée-Conti stands as both a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Burgundy's eminence in a challenging year and a manifestation of winemaking alchemy. Its pedigree, paired with its enigmatic evolution through two decades, renders this vintage one of noteworthy consideration for discerning investors and connoisseurs alike—a sovereign selection within the regal realm of Montrachet's lineage.

Current market price

$6,300.00

12x75cl

Highest score

92

POP score

314.17

Scores and tasting notes

91-93

In a typical vintage, Dominique Lafon produces 40 228-liter barrels of Meursault Charmes (white). In 2003 he made 14! Grilled oak-infused candied pears, spices, and honeyed minerals can be detected in its expressive aromatic profile. Medium-bodied, thick, and silky-textured, it is packed with spiced pears, buttered toast, stones, and minerals. Exceptionally long and refined, this is a candidate for drinking over the next 9 years. Importers: Daniel Johnnes/Jeroboam Wines, New York, NY; tel. (212) 625-2505, Classic Wine Imports, Boston, MA; tel. (617) 469-5799; and Beaune Imports, Berkeley Ca; tel. (510) 841-9815

Pierre Rovani - The Wine Advocate, 28 April 2005

Vintage performance