2010 Meursault 1er Cru Charmes
By Domaine des Comtes Lafon
2008 Montrachet from Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Burgundy, France
The 2008 vintage remains an illustrative chapter in the tome of Burgundian excellence, a year that presented challenges yet rewarded those with patience and precision. In this context, the 2008 Montrachet from Domaine de la Romanée-Conti stands as a testament to the painstaking nurture and deft skill of this famed estate. Capturing the unique essence of this specific harvest, the wine conveys the narrative of its origins with remarkable fidelity.
A Testament to Terroir and Technique
The 2008 growing season in Burgundy was marked by capricious conditions; spring frosts and a cool summer delayed ripening but ultimately led to an extended hang time for the grapes. This additional maturation period concentred flavours and developed complexity. The resulting Montrachet boasts an intense bouquet, intertwining hints of lemon zest, crushed stones, and a whisper of toasted hazelnut—a symphony that stirs the senses before a single sip is savoured.
On the palate, one uncovers layers unbound: a delicate interplay between minerality and mellifluousness, each taste revealing a latticework of subtlety only achievable under the scrupulous eyes of a diligent vigneron during such a demanding vintage. It is within these sips where the 2008 Montrachet's pedigree is earnestly expressed—each glass serving as both time capsule and portal to its storied terroir.
An Immutable Investment
Anchored by intricacy and finesse, the 2008 vintage from this iconic producer reinforces the precept that fine wine is not only an indulgence of taste but also a prudent investment. As these bottles continue to flourish and evolve within the cellar’s embrace, their value ascends commensurately—much like the burgeoning interest of seasoned collectors and investors keen on securing assets with undeniable provenance.
To sip on the 2008 Montrachet from Domaine de la Romanée-Conti is to partake in an enclave of winemaking majesty. This vintage particularly resonates with those who seek not only an extraordinary exemplar of Chardonnay but also wish to invest in a parcel of liquid history. For here lies a splendid specimen capable of further unfolding its fable for decades hence. While many vintages from this demesne draw admiration, it is the triumph over tribulation that hallmarks the 2008 Montrachet—a bottle undoubtedly worthy of both connoisseurship and investment acuity.
Market price (GBP)
£4,200.00
12x75cl
Highest score
95
POP score
280
Scores and tasting notes
The 2010 Meursault Charmes has found a level of focus over the last year that it didn’t have from barrel. The characteristic Charmes richness is there, but over time, the wine’s mineral elements have taken on additional prominence. Layers of deep, resonant fruit crescendo to the textured, multi-dimensional finish. This is a great showing from Comtes Lafon. Anticipated maturity: 2015+. (Not yet released) Comtes Lafon’s 2010 whites are just as impressive from bottle as they were in barrel. Dominique Lafon told me the wines changed quite a bit and found their precision during fining. The 2010s at Comtes Lafon are tight and powerful, with plenty of underlying fruit and depth. The 2010s were bottled between March and early June 2012. A Daniel Johnnes Selection, imported by Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300
Antonio Galloni - The Wine Advocate, 30 August 2012