Wines Meursault Domaine S Comtes Lafon - Les Gouttes d'Or - 1999

Viniou Reviews

Domaine des Comtes Lafon’s Meursault “Les Gouttes d'Or” 1999 is a white Burgundy of remarkable pedigree, belonging to the prestigious Premier Cru classification. Made from 100% Chardonnay, this wine hails from one of Meursault’s most esteemed lieux-dits, famed for its depth and capacity for ageing. The 1999 vintage, shaped by a warm growing season, has gifted Les Gouttes d'Or with opulent aromatics and a remarkable tension. Mature Meursault of this calibre displays complex layers: notes of toasted hazelnuts, ripe orchard fruit, honeycomb, and subtle hints of truffle and white flowers, underscored by a signature mineral salinity. The winemaking at Domaine des Comtes Lafon is meticulous, with respect for biodynamic principles and an emphasis on expressing the soul of each terroir. Gentle pressing, fermentation in oak barrels (with a judicious proportion of new oak), long lees ageing, and careful bottling ensure wines of both generosity and finesse.

The Côte de Beaune, and Meursault in particular, are celebrated for producing some of the world’s top Chardonnays. The region’s soils—primarily marl and limestone with pockets of clay—imbue the wines with their famed mineral backbone and longevity. The area benefits from a semi-continental climate: warm, sunny days and cool nights help to preserve acidity, giving the wines both weight and vibrancy. The historical legacy of the Côte de Beaune, steeped in generations of winemaking, is reflected in the precision and character of this cuvée.

For food pairings, this mature Meursault Premier Cru can stand alongside the most refined dishes. Classic white Burgundies such as this are sublime with rich seafood—think lobster in butter sauce, scallops, or turbot with a creamy morel mushroom preparation. Poultry in cream sauce, veal blanquette, or a classic Bresse chicken with truffle are equally superb. For regional harmony, consider serving with époisses or comté cheese, allowing the wine’s nuttiness to echo that of the cheese.

To fully appreciate its depth and maturity, decant the wine for 30 minutes before service. Serve slightly cool, ideally at 12-14°C. This will allow the aromas and textures to unfold in the glass, showcasing the full nuance and complexity of this outstanding white Burgundy.