Wines Unspecified Domaine S Comtes Lafon - 2004

Viniou Reviews

From the renowned Domaine des Comtes Lafon in Burgundy, this 2004 white Premier Cru embodies the elegance and complexity associated with the region’s finest expressions of Chardonnay. This vintage, crafted under the meticulous care and expertise that define the domaine, reflects not only the grape’s intrinsic character but also the unique nuances bestowed by Burgundy’s legendary terroir. The 2004 season was relatively cool and lengthy, producing wines with fabulous freshness, vibrant acidity, and a tightly woven mineral profile. The fermentation and ageing process likely involved judicious use of French oak, lending gentle notes of toast and hazelnut, while preserving the variety’s hallmark purity and depth. In the glass, expect a shimmering golden colour and aromas of white flowers, citrus zest, and a hint of flint, evolving with aeration into richer layers of brioche and honeyed stone fruit on the palate.

Burgundy is celebrated worldwide for its patchwork of microclimates and distinctive soils—chalky clay, limestone, and marl—that underpin the extraordinary diversity and quality of its white wines, particularly in the Côte de Beaune. Here, the region’s long winemaking history continues with passionate growers like Comtes Lafon, whose painstaking vineyard management and patient cellaring bring out the essence of each site. The region’s mild climate, marked by cool nights and sunny days, encourages slow ripening and excellent acid retention, contributing to the precision, finesse, and longevity for which Burgundy whites are famous.

A wine of this calibre deserves food that complements its structure and aromatics. Consider pairing with delicate seafood dishes such as pan-seared scallops, lobster with a beurre blanc, or classic dishes like poulet de Bresse à la crème. Regional Burgundy fare such as escargots with garlic and parsley or a fine Comté cheese will also highlight its minerality and depth.

For optimal tasting, serve this Premier Cru white Burgundy slightly chilled, in the range of 12-14°C, to allow the full spectrum of aromas and textures to unfold. A brief decanting or letting the wine breathe in the glass will further invite its complexity to develop, promising a rewarding tasting experience.