Viniou Reviews
Les Charmes Dessus Meursault Premier Cru 2018 is a splendid embodiment of Burgundy's great white wines. Crafted exclusively from Chardonnay grapes, this wine draws elegance and richness from one of Meursault's most renowned Premier Cru vineyards, Les Charmes Dessus. The 2018 vintage benefited from a warm growing season, resulting in grapes of superb ripeness and balance. Classic vinification methods were used: gentle pressing, fermentation partly in oak barrels (a hallmark of fine Meursault), and subsequent ageing on the lees which adds extra depth and complexity. The nose is rich and expressive, with notes of ripe stone fruit, toasted hazelnut, creamy vanilla, and a delicate minerality. On the palate, it boasts a generous texture, vibrant acidity, and a lingering finish redolent of citrus zest, white flowers and a discreet touch of oak.
The Côte de Beaune, part of Burgundy's historic wine region, is famous for its exceptional limestone soils that impart unmistakable finesse and minerality to Chardonnay. The gentle slopes enjoy a temperate continental climate, with warm days and cool nights that help preserve acidity and aromatic complexity. Burgundy itself is the birthplace of Chardonnay and has centuries of winegrowing tradition, with Meursault being highly esteemed for producing some of the most sumptuous and opulent expressions of the grape.
This Meursault Premier Cru pairs beautifully with dishes that echo its complexity and richness, such as lobster in beurre blanc, roast turbot, or creamy poultry dishes like Bresse chicken with morel mushrooms. Local classics like escargots de Bourgogne or a simple quenelle de brochet in sauce can also be wonderful partners. Rich, savoury cheeses like aged Comté or Brillat-Savarin will accentuate its texture and nutty notes remarkably.
Serve slightly chilled, ideally between 12 and 14°C. Pour into large white wine glasses to fully appreciate the bouquet, and if possible, allow the wine to breathe for 30 minutes before serving to let the aromas unfurl. This wine has excellent ageing potential but is already a delight in its youth.
