The Domaine des Comtes Lafon Meursault "Perrières" Premier Cru 2012 is a superb expression of Burgundy’s white wines, crafted exclusively from Chardonnay grapes. The 2012 vintage benefited from a challenging but ultimately rewarding growing season, which resulted in wines of depth and precision. "Perrières" is among Meursault’s most celebrated climats, renowned for producing wines of remarkable minerality and ageing potential. The domaine is famed for its meticulous vinification: hand-harvested grapes, gentle pressing, and fermentation in oak barrels—of which a proportion is new—followed by an extended period of maturation on lees. This careful approach yields a wine that is both rich and elegant, with an aromatic palette featuring notes of citrus, white peach, toasted almonds, subtle floral touches, and a pronounced stony minerality.
Meursault lies in the Côte de Beaune, a storied heartland of great whites. The chalky, limestone-rich soils of the Perrières vineyard impart a singular vibrancy and tension to the wine, while the east-facing slopes catch the morning sun, ensuring optimal ripeness. The region enjoys a semi-continental climate, marked by cool winters and warm summers, which encourages a long growing season, perfect for developing intricate aromas and complexity in Chardonnay. The Burgundy region, with its monastic viticultural history and centuries-old terroir, stands as a benchmark for elegant, age-worthy whites.
Such a wine pairs beautifully with refined dishes. Classic matches include butter-poached lobster or scallops, roast chicken with morel mushrooms, or a creamy risotto with truffle. For something especially local, try it with poulet de Bresse à la crème or a matured Comté cheese. Its mineral backbone and freshness also make it a fitting companion to sashimi or delicately spiced Asian cuisine.
For optimal appreciation, serve this Meursault Premier Cru at 11-13°C. Decanting for 30 minutes may help to reveal its complexity, especially if the wine is still youthful. Over the coming years, this wine will continue to develop, so patience will be amply rewarded if you choose to cellar it further.
