Wines Unspecified Domaine S Comtes Lafon - Perrieres Blanc - 2004

Viniou Reviews

Domaine des Comtes Lafon’s 2004 Cuvée Perrières Blanc is a superb expression of white Burgundy, produced from Chardonnay grapes that flourish in the esteemed Premier Cru terroir of Meursault. The 2004 vintage was marked by a relatively cool growing season, which has contributed to the wine’s vibrant acidity and its remarkable capacity for ageing. The grapes for this cuvée come from the renowned ‘Les Perrières’ vineyard, a site celebrated for its stony, limestone-rich soils, which impart a distinctive mineral character to the wine. Vinification at Comtes Lafon is meticulous, with gentle pressing, fermentation in oak (typically with a proportion of new barrels), and patient ageing on lees to enhance texture and complexity.

Burgundy’s Côte de Beaune region, where Meursault is located, benefits from a continental climate, with cold winters and warm, often sunny summers. The combination of well-draining, mineral-laden soils and a microclimate that is both protective and stimulating allows for slow, nuanced ripening of the Chardonnay, resulting in wines with balance, finesse, and depth. The history of viticulture in this region stretches back centuries, with Meursault wines long prized for their purity and their capacity to express the subtlest nuances of terroir.

Pairing this wine is a pleasure thanks to its elegance and richness, balanced by refreshing acidity. Ideal companions include classic Burgundy dishes such as poulet de Bresse à la crème, or shellfish like scallops in a light beurre blanc. For a regional touch, try serving it with escargots de Bourgogne or pike quenelles. It also shines alongside aged Comté or a soft-ripened cheese such as Chaource.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this white Burgundy moderately chilled, at 12-14°C. Give the wine some time in the glass to allow its bouquet of citrus, white flowers, hazelnut, and flint to unfurl. Decanting is not essential but can benefit older bottles by allowing subtle aromas and complexity to emerge fully.