Wines Unspecified Domaine S Comtes Lafon - 2002

Viniou Reviews

This white wine hails from the illustrious Domaine des Comtes Lafon, renowned for its dedication to excellence in Burgundy’s most sought-after crus. Crafted in 2002, this Premier Cru exemplifies the sophisticated character and ageing potential of top-tier Burgundian Chardonnay. The grapes are meticulously selected from Premier Cru vineyards, where yields are carefully controlled to ensure the purity and intensity of the fruit. Vinification is traditional, with fermentation and élevage taking place in French oak barrels, a proportion of which is new, lending subtle complexity and structure. Over two decades of bottle age have endowed this wine with an exquisitely layered nose, where ripe orchard fruits, toasted hazelnuts, nougat and a touch of honey develop, alongside delicate tertiary nuances of truffle, brioche and a gentle minerality.

Burgundy’s reputation for elegance and finesse is largely attributed to its cool Continental climate, promoting slow ripening and nuanced aromatics. The soils, predominantly limestone and marl, particularly in the Côte d’Or, impart remarkable minerality and poise to the wines. The region’s fragmented vineyard holdings and historic classification system result in a tapestry of microclimates and terroirs, each expressing a unique character – a hallmark of what makes Premier Cru Burgundy so celebrated. Domaine des Comtes Lafon, based in Meursault but with holdings across various communes, is revered for producing white wines that skillfully balance richness, complexity, and tension.

For pairing, the wine’s complexity and understated power make it a superb match for refined seafood such as lobster or scallops in a delicate butter sauce, or classic Burgundian dishes like poulet de Bresse with morel mushrooms and cream. It also elevates simply cooked white fish, veal in a light jus, or even risottos with seasonal vegetables and Parmesan. Those nutty, toasty undertones harmonise delightfully with aged Comté or a light goat’s cheese.

To appreciate the full spectrum of its aromatics and graceful maturity, serve this wine at a cool, but not cold, temperature — ideally between 12-14°C. Decanting for 20 to 30 minutes can help coax out its subtle tertiary notes, revealing the wine’s remarkable depth and complexity.