Viniou Reviews
The Meursault Genevrières Premier Cru 1999 from Domaine des Comtes Lafon is a benchmark white Burgundy, wonderfully expressing the soul of its terroir and the refinement of its winemaking craft. Crafted from Chardonnay, this prestigious cuvée comes from one of Meursault’s most lauded Premier Cru vineyards—Genevrières—renowned for its fine, pebbly soils and excellent sun exposure. The 1999 vintage, matured in oak barrels, has developed extraordinary complexity after over two decades. You can expect an enchanting bouquet of toasted hazelnuts, ripe orchard fruits, lemon curd, beeswax, and delicate white florals, underpinned by seductive notes of brioche and subtle minerality. The palate reveals a harmonious blend of richness and tension, with a creamy texture balanced by vibrant acidity and a persistent saline finish.
Meursault, sitting in the Côte de Beaune, has long been celebrated for its opulent and sophisticated white wines. The region’s climate is semi-continental, with warm days and cool nights that preserve freshness and encourage the gradual ripening of the grapes. The soils here are composed mainly of clay-limestone, providing the foundation for the village’s famous fullness and textural depth, while the higher limestone content in the Premier Cru sites like Genevrières adds nuance and energy. The legacy of viticulture in Meursault dates back to the Middle Ages, and today wines from producers such as Domaine des Comtes Lafon are considered among the finest expressions of Chardonnay worldwide.
For a wine of this elegance and maturity, the food pairing options are both luxurious and traditional. Classic companions include roast lobster with butter and herbs, scallops in a cream sauce, or a delicate poultry dish such as a Bresse chicken with morels. Local Burgundian dishes like pike quenelles in a Nantua sauce or aged Comté cheese will also harmonise beautifully, highlighting the wine’s depth and complexity.
To fully appreciate the nuance of this mature Meursault, serve it slightly cool, ideally at 12-14°C. Decanting gently for around thirty minutes can help reveal its full aromatic palette. Enjoy this wine in a large Burgundy glass to allow its subtle layers to unfold.
